THE latest designs in reusable nappies are going on show in Stevenage town centre. Backing for natty nappies is coming from the borough council and it is offering to meet most of the cost parents should expect to pay for using them on their babies. The co

THE latest designs in reusable nappies are going on show in Stevenage town centre.

Backing for natty nappies is coming from the borough council and it is offering to meet most of the cost parents should expect to pay for using them on their babies.

The council said this week that real nappies are no longer just an eco-friendly, economic option.

Funky designs and contemporary colours to suit the coolest babies are hitting the nursery catwalks this spring.

These days, using real nappies is all about practicality, performance and long-term savings, added the council.

It is supporting Real Nappy Week's 10th anniversary by displaying the latest designs in the town centre on Wednesday, April 26, from 9.30am to 4pm and at the ASDA store on Friday, April 28, from 10am to 4pm.

The council is also offering £40 cash back as an incentive to residents to use reusables.

To qualify, they need to provide an original receipt for reusable nappies to that value and a copy of the birth certificate.

Environmental campaigns manager Dave White said: "Nearly three billion nappies are thrown away in the UK every year and the vast majority of these end up in landfill.

"But real nappies don't just have environmental advantages. Most parents are unaware that all the real nappies and waterproof covers you need for the whole of a baby's nappy-wearing life can be bought on the high street for £50. And the same amount of money would only buy nine weeks' worth of disposables.