Parents are pulling together to revive an advice and support service for the district’s mums and dads.

Volunteers are re-launching the Harlow and Epping branch of the National Childbirth Trust, which trailed off in 2008 because of a lack of volunteers.

The trust - the country's largest charity for parents - runs antenatal and postnatal classes, as well as activities and events for parents and children, with a party at the Jack Silley Pavilion in Epping.

The group’s membership secretary, Sophie Wyn-Evans, who has a nine-month old daughter and is expecting a son in a few weeks, said: “In Epping, we’ve had an increase in young people who have moved in from areas like Redbridge.

“Other areas have traditionally had very active branches and we’re hoping that this branch will help support growing families and play a vital role in linking and keeping people together.

“There’s nothing nicer than being able to talk to new parents and be properly supported.

“Our mission is to offer somebody a cuppa and to talk to new mums in need of a listening ear.”

There are already 14 volunteers signed up to help run the branch and Mrs Wyn-Evans said they were hoping to host gatherings for expectant mothers and those with babies and toddlers.

She added: “There’s not much to do if you’ve got children of mixed ages in Epping.

“Our team is looking to host a range of things in their homes.”

The group hopes to organise a summer picnic with activities for children and information stands for parents, as well as a Christmas party, nearly-new sales and a lending library this year and has also launched a magazine, Roots to Shoots.

For more information on joining, visit www.nct.org.uk/branches/harlow-epping.

  • The branch's launch party is due to take place on Saturday at the Jack Silley Pavilion in Stonards Hill, Epping, from 2pm to 4pm.