The pair, both mums of toddlers, are backing the 'Wellbeing During Pregnancy' leaflet, available free from Action Research.

Topics covered include the importance of taking folic acid during pregnancy. It was the charity’s funding over 30 years that led to discovering the link between folic acid and the role it plays in the prevention of spina bifida.

Linda – who is now a regular in ITV’s police drama The Bill – has a daughter Lucy, aged 4, and a son Jack, aged 9 months. Bernie - currently seen in Channel 4’s Brookside – has a daughter Erin, aged 1.

Bernie’s character in Brookside Diane Murray has been seen on screen taking folic acid in anticipation of becoming pregnant as part of a current storyline.

Bernie said: "Taking folic acid is so important as it protects against spina bifida which is a terrible condition. However, I recall my family having a big discussion about it as my sisters did not take it and had not heard of folic acid. It is important that women are aware of its benefits."

Linda said: "If something as simple as taking folic acid can help babies be born normal, then we all need to spread the word about it because there are pregnant women out there who aren’t taking it. But I am sure they would if they knew about it."

As well as outlining the importance of folic acid, the leaflet also covers diet, morning sickness and some of the possible complications that can occur during pregnancy.

For a free copy of the ‘Wellbeing During Pregnancy’ leaflet please send an SAE to Action Research, Vincent House, North Parade, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 2DP or e-mail info@actionresearch.co.uk. For more information about the charity, visit the Action Research website. Click here.

Click here for more information on healthy eating during pregnancy, including how to maintain a balanced diet and the importance of folic acid.

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CAR SAFETY

NEW research into small car safety has praised seven cars for crash safety:

Fiat Punto Peugot 206 Renault Clio Skoda Fabia

Toyota Yaris Volkswagen Lupo Volkswagen Polo

The same research, by the European New Car Assessment Programme (ENCAP), raised concerns about the new ISOFIX-designed car seats, saying protection was disappointing. ENCAP has called for car and car seat manufacturers to examine the findings.

Talk about your experiences with car seats on the Product Talk discussion board and share your views and concerns on the Views on the news discussion board.