A HOSPITAL'S campaign to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds for its maternity facilities has attracted the support of a footballer's wife.

Carly Cole, 25, who was born at Whipps Cross University Hospital, is backing its Big Push Appeal, which aims to raise £350,000 for equipment and improvements in the maternity department.

The wife of Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole met expectant mums when she visited the Leytonstone hospital on Tuesday, October 13, and this included mum Fathi Mohammed.

Mrs Cole, who is herself pregnant, said: “As a Whipps Cross baby myself, and an expectant mum, this cause means a lot to me. I am proud to support the appeal, which will make a real difference to the mums who will have their babies here.

“Coming here and meeting staff, new mums and their babies has shown me the importance of the new equipment and resources the appeal will provide.”

The appeal has raised £64,000 so far.

A hospital spokeswoman said: “We are delighted that Carly has agreed to be one of the ambassadors for the Big Push.”