Last updated at 16:10, Sunday, 09 December 2012

MORE and more high-profile sportsmen are throwing their weight behind a breastfeeding support campaign headed up by a rugby league ace.

HEALTHY OPTION: Martin Ostler with his daughter Mia submitted

Martin Ostler, a Barrow Raiders player and personal trainer, launched ‘Breastfeeding is a Team Effort’ alongside Carlisle Rugby Club Captain, Steve Stamper, last week.

Aimed at men aged 25 to 35 in Barrow, Workington and Carlisle, it aims to get them supporting new mums in their personal choices.

Now Carlisle United, Workington Reds and Whitehaven Rugby League have all shown their support.

It is a positive step for the campaign, launched after a survey carried out in Cumbria revealed that 22 per cent of men in Barrow found the concept of breastfeeding uncomfortable or embarrassing, as well as 27 per cent in Workington and 26 per cent in Carlisle.

Mr Ostler has a two-year-old daughter called Mia.

The 32-year-old said: “As a personal trainer I am always promoting good nutrition for adults, so of course I want the best possible nutrition for Mia.

“Another great benefit of breastfeeding is that it is free!

“I don’t mind Ellie, or any other woman, breastfeeding – I think it is a natural thing to do.”

It is hoped by reducing men’s embarrassment around breastfeeding, women will feel more free to do so.

Mary Kiddy, consultant nurse for public health for Cumbria Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, said: “There are many ways men can support their partner.

“These range from providing her with emotional support, helping her to discreetly feed in public if she feels embarrassed, to complimenting her.

“Tell her how proud of her you are and that she looks nice even if she feels awful!”

First published at 17:13, Friday, 07 December 2012
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk