BECOMING a parent is exciting but can be lonely and stressful, so a small group of Chester parents have started a drop-in social session in a city centre café.

New Arrivals is a chance for mums and dads of babies and very young children to meet others in the same situation.

Rosemary Johnston, one of the founders and mother of two, said: “It can be very hard adjusting to life with a baby.You can feel very isolated and not know where to turn. We hope New Arrivals will help people to make the new friendships and connections they need.”

Parents can bring unwanted clothes and toys to give away or swap. The initiative is also supported by the health visitors from St Martin’s Clinic who attend on the first Monday each month to offer informal advice.

New Arrivals is held every Monday except bank holidays from 10.30am-12.30pm in the Wesley Coffee Bar on St John Street in the city centre.There are good facilities for children including a large play area.