A cycle team made up of Bristol mums, midwives, hospital staff and even Bristol rugby players are all gearing up for a challenge to raise funds for Southmead hospital this Saturday.

The 'Spin Bike Challenge' is being held at David Lloyd Westbury in support of the Mum's the Word appeal.

The appeal is helping to transform the maternity unit at Southmead Hospital and hopes to raise over £1.5million in the next four years. The appeal has already raised £140,000 since it was launched in the spring.

Each of the cyclists will complete a half hour cycle on a ‘spin bike’ at the club and raise money through donations and sponsorship at the same time.

Head of Fundraising for the appeal Trevor Reid said, "Our maternity unit is a fantastic department, but we want to raise funds to create a much better environment and provide new facilities. Thanks to the support of everyone taking part in the Spin Bike Challenge we will be another step closer to helping the thousands of mums and babies we care for every year.”

The appeal will see the creation of an expanded birthing suite at Southmead hospital, a new purpose built family room for mothers, babies and visitors and new en-suite facilities for new mums.

Trevor added, “We’ve got a really diverse team of cyclists including new mums, staff from the maternity unit and even Bristol Rugby players. It’s so great to bring everyone together in support of a very deserving local cause.”

People wanting to donate to the Mum’s the Word appeal or the spin bike challenge can now send a donation by text. Simply Text MUMS11 £3 to 70070 and a £3 donation will be made to the charity appeal.