A FORWARD-thinking parent is launching the first pre-school group for children with allergies in Redditch.

Mum Rachael Reader struggled with her daughter's allergies to milk, wheat and eggs at regular play groups, where she wasn't allowed to touch the snacks on offer for fear of an allergic reaction.

Her response to the problem has been to create a group where children with food allergies can play safely and parents can chat to each about their experiences.

Rachael said: "At a normal play group you can't relax for a moment as there are always biscuits, squash or wheat-based modelling clay around.

"I would have loved a resource such as this when I was first having to cope with my daughter's problems."

The group has the full backing of Allergy UK, the Pre-School Learning Alliance and Family Information Services.

Members receive an information pack with advice, quarterly news letters and recipe ideas.

Rachael also hopes to build up a database of parents as time goes on so that those with older children can help out parents who are just beginning to face difficulties over allergies.

The group is launching on October 10 and will be running every Wednesday from 9.30-11am at Mappleborough Green Village Hall.

Parents of children with multiple allergies can call Rachael on 540839 or 07878 122487 for more information.