A PIONEERING training course to promote breast feeding has been launched at a local hospital and is already attracting attention from around the world.

Queen's Park Hospital in Blackburn has teamed up with the University of Central Lancashire in Preston as part of a special UNICEF-backed breast feeding programme.

Community nurses and midwives in the Blackburn, Hyndburn and Ribble Valley NHS Trust, are now learning how to persuade mums that breast is best - and the rest of the world are keen to learn too.

"This is the first course of its kind in Britain and we're privileged to be able to offer it here in Blackburn," said Christine Durkin, Communicare's professional advisor. "We've already had doctors from Switzerland and America coming over to look at how we train our staff. It's a great achievement and a promising partnership."

Run in conjunction with the University's Department of Midwifery Studies and the United Nations Children's Fund, the three day courses will be a part of an ongoing programme. The launch coincides with National Breast Awareness Week which runs until May 26.

Breast-feeding levels in the UK are among the poorest in Europe and it is hoped the Blackburn course can be used as a model nationwide.

"Our nurses learn to encourage mothers that breast feeding is the healthiest option for their babies," added Mrs Durkin. "It can prevent cancer and various illnesses and is vital for their immune system. It's important mothers learn this."

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