Book a place at child-free group

It is thought to be the only group of its kind in the county

A Devon library has come up with an innovative scheme to enable young mothers to indulge their love of reading in peace.

The Books without Babies group at Bideford Library works with the Sure Start scheme to supply a creche worker to look after the children.

Members of the group can then discuss books undisturbed.

The free group, which meets once a month, will look at the tales of Edgar Allen Poe at its next meeting.

Rose Wiseman from Bideford Library said: "We thought there was a real need for younger people to continue to develop their love of books and reading, as well as taking time out from their busy lives as parents.

"So far it's only been women, but we don't rule out men as a possibility!"

The group, thought to be the only one of its kind in the county, will next meet on 25 January.