South Tyneside mother who suffered from postnatal anxiety 'finding her pre-motherhood self' with Christmas concert at Jarrow Hall

Professional musician Laura Connolly, from Jarrow, suffered from postnatal anxiety after giving birth and felt like she lost a part of her pre-motherhood self.

Worried about her baby’s health, Laura identified the need for more support groups for new mothers in South Tyneside, and went on to start Little & Loud which hosts weekly music and movement classes for 0-4 year old’s and their parents.

Now the former clog dancer is bringing her show ‘Holly and Ivy’ to Jarrow Hall, just in time for Christmas.

She said: “Being able to deliver my sessions in Central Jarrow has made a huge impact on my health and well being. I’m doing the thing I love most and I’m doing it for me and other new mums.”

“Holly and Ivy is the kind of musical event where everyone leaves smiling with a feeling that Christmas is just around the corner.”

The concert features Laura, along with David Oliver, Stewart Hardy and Grace Smith having a merry celebration, presenting songs, stories, dances and Christmas traditions.

Laura has been delivering music sessions all over the North East since 2005, including for the likes of Sage Gateshead, Sightlines Initiative, Worldbeaters, English Folk Dance and Song Society and Cbeebies.

Holly and Ivy will take place at Jarrow Hall on Friday December 13 and tickets can be booked at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/groundworksouthtynesideandnewcastle/319536/ for just £1.