NEW PARENTS in Huddersfield are being encouraged to nominate their midwife for a national award.

Cash prizes are being offered by

Huddersfield-based retailer Mamas & Papas to find the Midwife of the Year 2005.

The award, launched in 1997, gives parents the chance to show their appreciation for the care, dedication and support shown by their midwife.

Going beyond the call of duty, supporting breast-feeding mothers and suggesting new treatments were some of the qualities previous winners have been praised for.

The winning midwife will receive £1,000 to spend on equipment for their unit and a £1,000 cash prize.

The nominating parent will also win £1,000 and will receive an extra £1,000 for their baby's Child Trust Fund.

The competition is open to parents who have had or are expecting their baby between April 1, 2004, and 31 July, 2005.

A panel of judges from Prima Baby magazine, Mamas & Papas and previous winners will judge the nominations.

The winning midwife will be chosen from eight regional finalists and will be presented with their prize on September 14 at the Mamas and Papas head office, near Cooper Bridge, Huddersfield.

To nominate a midwife parents need to complete an entry form detailing why their midwife deserves the award.

Forms are available at Mamas & Papas stores across the country, maternity units or by visiting www.mamasandpapas.com.

The closing date for applications is August 12, 2005.