A LESBIAN mother is launching a gay parents' support group in an effort to stop her child and others feeling excluded because of society's attitudes towards their mums or dads.

Laura, 20, from Southend, said she wanted to make sure her two-year-old daughter, Lily, did not feel her family was not "normal".

She said she hoped by publicising the group, she could also help challenge the prejudices that had already made life difficult for them.

Anyone interested in going along to the group, which starts on Sunday, February 5 and will be held at an undisclosed venue, should call the switchboard on 01702 344 355, or visit www.southessexswitchboard.com