Businesses across Bristol are showing their support for the new Mums the Word appeal at Southmead hospital, which will see the redevelopment of the maternity unit at Southmead hospital.

Staff at John Lewis at Cribbs Causeway are among the first to donate to the appeal. The retail store is sponsoring the new mural which hangs in the post-natal wards.

The five metre long mural shows a Bristol scene and supporters are being encouraged to personalise a balloon with a message which will be displayed on the mural, in return for a donation to the appeal.

Head of fundraising for the hospital Trevor Reid said, "It's really wonderful to see local companies like John Lewis Cribbs Causeway leading the way and supporting the Mums the Word appeal. Their sponsorship of the mural is a great gesture and will really boost our donations."

Liz Mihell, Managing Director, John Lewis Cribbs Causeway said, "Our contribution to local society is a vital part of what makes our business different. Partners take great pride in their local communities where they have supported in a huge variety of ways. Many Partners have used the Maternity ward, so I'm particularly delighted the branch is able to support the mural and the Mums the Word appeal."

The Mums the Word appeal include an expanded birthing suite, more consultation rooms for baby scans and a greater number of en-suite facilities for new mums. The funds will also help refurbish the delivery suite and create a new family room for mothers, babies and their visitors.

The appeal is also receiving the support of The Little Monster Club which is based in Bristol. The discount and savings club supports new mums in the city, and is donating a number of free memberships to supporters of the appeal. It has also promoted the appeal at its recent event in the city. Other local firms to show their support also include 'Tart' and 'Rimando's', both on Gloucester Road

Trevor added, "It has been really wonderful to see how much support the appeal is getting across Bristol from local companies. We would like to thank them and welcome contact from any local firms who would also like to help support the maternity unit at Southmead".

Donations to the appeal can be made online at www.justgiving.co.uk/mumsthewordappeal. Cheque donations can be made out to "Mums the Word appeal" and sent to Mums the Word appeal, Fundraising office, Christopher Hancock building, Southmead hospital, Bristol, BS10 5NB