Newborn children in Bradford are to be tested for congenital deafness as part of a pilot scheme to battle the condition from birth.

Bradford Health Authority is one of only 20 sites across England chosen by the National Deaf Children's Society (NDCS) to test babies at birth and increase the chances of fighting the affliction.

Results from the pilot tests will be reported to the Department of Health and will be used in its attempts to screen all newborn children.

A spokesman for the charity said: "At present babies' hearing is routinely tested at seven to eight months using the Infant Distraction Test which is widely recognised as being inadequate.

"Late diagnosis can cause language delay, with a knock-on effect on social and behavioural development.

"The screening of all infants for deafness from birth will help to safeguard the identification of any hearing loss within a few weeks of birth, giving them the best possible start in life."

Another part of the charity's campaign against deafness is the information days it stages under the Best Start for Babies project.

On Saturday specialists and advisers will be at the Richard Dunn Sports Centre, Rooley Avenue, Bradford, for all families of deaf children from the district.

Experts will give advice on technology, education, services in the area and all aspects of childhood deafness. Sign language and Urdu interpretation will be available.

The spokesman added: "As well as meeting NDCS advisers and other professionals, families will have the opportunity to meet and talk to other deaf children and adults.

"This gives deaf children and their families the chance to make new friends and meet positive deaf role models."

For more information about the project ring Beverley Silke on 020 7490 8656 (voice or text), fax her on 020 7251 5020 or send an e-mail to beverley@ndcs.org.uk.