EXPECTANT mothers visiting Royal Bolton Hospital’s maternity ward are being welcomed by a stunning new piece of artwork.

Liverpool artist John Culshaw was commissioned by Wendy Parkinson and the team on M2 ward to create the painting which has helped liven up an otherwise drab corridor.

John has previously worked on large art projects across Liverpool, focusing on city icons including The Beatles, and Liverpool FC manager Jurgen Klopp.

Boxer Tyson Fury also chose John to create a mural at his new gym.

“I got involved in the project through my auntie, Louise Hannah, who is a midwife,” John said.

“My inspiration behind the artwork was my take on the journey women go through on the ward, from arriving with a bump to the miracle of leaving with another member of the family.”

With limited time and space, John found himself up against the clock to complete the project and had to ensure that correct social distancing and COVID-19 safe guidelines were adhered to.

He said: “The main challenges were working with spray paint in the corridor of a functioning maternity ward.

“We put up sheets to protect from dust and dirt and created as much ventilation as possible through windows and doors for the fumes.

“I don’t think we caused too much disruption as the piece was completed within four to five hours.

“It makes me very proud to do anything for the NHS, as me and my family are really proud of my auntie Louise and the whole NHS. It really is our nation’s greatest achievement and something I think everyone is proud of.”