WILMSLOW bar The Old Dancer is backing a scheme which supports breastfeeding in public.

The Grove Street business is supporting the BfN Breastfeeding Friendly Scheme.

“Any breast or bottle-feeding parent of an infant under 12 months old visiting our bar will be given a free hot drink - just ask a member of staff,” said a bar spokesman.

“We know how hard taking children out shopping can be, so why not pop in and take five minutes out? We also have baby changing facilities on site.”

The bar’s support for the scheme has been welcomed on its facebook site.

One mum said: “I was very grateful for a friendly refuge when my three-month-old was having a grumpy afternoon and I was on my own.

“Knowing you guys wouldn't mind me popping in for a quick feed -and it turned out a nappy change too - helped a stressful afternoon, and the free drink was a bonus.”

The Breastfeeding Network site said: “Breastfeeding is good for mums, babies and the environment, but many women feel nervous about breastfeeding out and about, and this can mean they choose not to breastfeed or that they stop breastfeeding before they want to.

“Concerns about breastfeeding in public (such as embarrassment and negative public attitudes) have been identified as one of the main barriers to breastfeeding.

“By signing up to this scheme businesses and organisations can help show that they welcome and support breastfeeding families by displaying an easily recognisable sticker and sharing information with their staff and volunteers about why breastfeeding is important and how it is protected.

“Families, look out for stickers and posters with the BfN Breastfeeding Friendly logo or search for a signed up venue that is local to you if you are feeling unsure about breastfeeding out and about.

“It is important to remember that your right to breastfeed in any public place is protected by law and that most women only have positive experiences of breastfeeding out and about.

“The aims of the BfN Breastfeeding Friendly scheme are to support families to feel confident breastfeeding out and about, be a way that communities and businesses can show they welcome and support breastfeeding and raise awareness about the benefit and barriers to breastfeeding.”