THOUSANDS of mums took part in The Big Breastfeeding Café event with a number of events held in Dorset.

The nationwide campaign, led by breastfeeding brand Medela, connected families via a network of mini café events, taking place on the same day across the UK.

Now in its fourth year, the campaign coincided with newly released figures from a survey that revealed 75% of mums believe the best support comes from fellow breastfeeders.

One Dorset mum who attended said: "It was so nice to meet some fellow breastfeeding mums and be part of something really lovely.

"How fun to think there are mums just like us all over the country getting involved today to give breastfeeding mummies a shout out!

"We’ve had a lovely time, chatted and shared some tips.”

Another breastfeeding mum commented that she was “still breastfeeding thanks to inspiration from a friend made at a breastfeeding support group.”

With 75% of participants agreeing that guidance from breastfeeding mums positively impacted their own feeding experience, it shows the importance of mum to mum communication.

The same survey, which polled more than 500 mums, also uncovered that nearly two thirds of respondents felt that having access to a breastfeeding-friendly café or support group gave them the confidence to breastfeed in public.

A total of seven cafés were organised in Dorset, including Weymouth, Dorchester, Bridport, Bournemouth, Southbourne, Poole, Shaftesbury and Winton.

Some were hosted by mums in their own homes, as well as national chain Coffee#1 - which held events in Weymouth, Dorchester and Bridport during the morning.

Sioned Hilton, Medela UK’s education manager, said: “The age-old phrase of ‘mum knows best’ rings true.

“We are finding time and time again that personal advice from mums who have breastfed themselves is invaluable.

"Ensuring that all breastfeeding mums have a reassuring and supportive network is vital.”

A spokesperson from Coffee#1 said: “We strive to create an inviting, inclusive space for everyone in the community and welcoming breastfeeding mothers every day is part of that.”

The annual event has garnered a host of celebrity support from high profile mums including Giovanna Fletcher, Helen Skelton, Georgia Jones. Izzy Judd, Jessica Cunningham, Zoe Hardman and many more.