NOBODY ever said parenting was a doddle, but a Billericay charity could help ease the pain of raising children thanks to a new batch of courses.

Mums and dads who want to get the most out of family life and understand why children behave as they do are being urged to join one of the Billericay Parents Forums' informal courses.

Run for parents by parents, the free courses are a great way to ensure parents make the most of their time with their children.

The next two courses begin on Thursday, May 8, at Queens Park Community Church, in Queens Park Avenue, Billericay.

One class will take place from 9.30am to 11.30am including creche facilities. The other will be later in the day from 7.45pm to 9.45pm. Both will run for five weeks and exclude half-term.

Tracy Crease, organiser, said: "We will also shortly be announcing the dates for another of our dads courses."

Call 01277 633910 for details about the parents forum and how to sign up for a course or visit www.billericayparents.com