NEW parents in Atherton are being encouraged to use real nappies for their babies.

They are being invited to take part in a programme being introduced across Wigan Borough that is environmentally friendly and should keep parents and babies happy.

The scheme promotes the use of non-disposable nappies, which, it claims, makes life easier for young mums.

It comes as a result of a partnership between Wigan Council's People and Places Programme and Cotton Tails nappy laundry service.

Organisers say that using real nappies instead of disposables is not only good for the environment, by sending less waste to landfill sites, but it can also be good for babies too.

They claim they are convenient to use, have been proven to reduce the incidence of nappy rash, and unlike disposable nappies, there are no chemicals used for absorbency.

The scheme, already popular in America and Canada, sees soiled nappies collected on a weekly basis to be professionally and hygienically laundered.

Teresa Jennings, Wigan Council's People and Places Programme Manager, said: "In essence this scheme takes mothers back to freshly laundered nappies, helping to dispose of the disposables. The scheme will also help the Council work towards Government targets for waste minimisation."

Jenny Baker of Cotton Tails, added: "The non-disposable nappies are a far cry from the old terry towelling ones with huge pins. They are very easy to use and come in a range of sizes to ensure a comfortable and leak free fit.

"The first 50 parents to sign up for the scheme will be able to take advantage of a subsidised trial month thanks to the People and Places Programme."

Further information is from Jenny on 01244 374521.