A GWENT photographer who hopes to normalise breastfeeding through a series of photos said she is “overwhelmed” after more than 600 mothers signed up to take part.

Abergavenny-based Hannah Merrett set out on a project photographing mums feeding their little ones in relaxed environments such as their home or in the local community.

She set up a Facebook page called The Beauty of Mummy's Milk and posts a photo a day of mums feeding.

The idea is to display the photos on posters in public places like coffee shops and GP surgeries, as well as on social media.

Ms Merrett said: “The aim of the project is to give women confidence to feed their babies when they're out – something which can be daunting, particularly for new mothers.”

Mum-of-three Ms Merrett said the project now has the backing of local health professionals and flyers and posters are being made to be displayed in the windows of local venues.

She said: “Although this should not be necessary, many mothers feel nervous about whether they will receive negative reactions when feeding out and about.

“A simple window sign can give them the reassurance they need at a time when they might be feeling vulnerable."

Since its launched at the beginning of February, the project has gained a huge amount of support.

More than 600 mothers have come forward wanting to be photographed.

Ms Merrett said: “With almost 20 mums already photographed and hundreds more on a waiting list, this project is set to really show women in our local area that breastfeeding in public is not as scary as is often portrayed in the media.

“My aim is to make as many people as possible comfortable with feeding their baby whenever and wherever they are hungry or need comfort.

“If this project just helps to give new mums that little confidence boost they need, then it has achieved its goal."

The project will be running throughout the year. Anyone interested in taking part or finding out more is asked to contact Ms Merrett via her Facebook page facebook.com/hannahmerrettphotography