NEWPORT'S campaign to become the next new city of Wales is being boosted by the support of local businesses.

Among the firms and business organisations that have already declared their backing are Newport and Gwent Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Newport Chamber of Trade, HSBC bank, Cogent (Orb Electrical Steels), STS Surface Technology Systems, Jarvis Wentloog Hotel, AB Electronic Assemblies Limited, Castle Leisure, Daffodil Leisure, Johnsey Estates, Paul Gentile Jewellers, Holiday Inn and Hutchings and Thomas.

HSBC has been supporting Newport's campaign with a city status display in its main Bridge Street branch and by making the petitions available for its customers to sign throughout Newport.

Andrew Wilkinson, HSBC area manager Newport, said: "We welcome the opportunity to support the bid for city status.

"It would underpin all the good work that has been taking place to bring in inward investment and create the correct profile for the future."

Mike Lynham, president of the Newport and Gwent Chamber of Commerce and Industry and a member of the city status campaign, said: "City status will economically benefit Newport and South East Wales. Being granted the honour would acknowledge our importance as the gateway for business and commerce, raising our profile globally.

"The bid is supported by Newport council and the committee hopes to actively involve local people and businesses.

"We are pleased that businesses are already giving us their support." The city status campaign is suggesting a number of ways that businesses can become involved with New-port's campaign.

Some ideas are: *Send the campaign a letter of support - write to Ben Hoppe, Newport's campaign for city status, public relations dept, Civic Centre, Newport, NP20 4UR or email newcity@newport.gov.uk

*Download the city status screen saver from www.newport.gov.uk/city for your computer.

*Request a campaign pack containing petitions, flags, car stickers and information cards.

*Get involved and help publicise future events - ring (01633) 232887 or see the official website www.newport.gov.uk/city.

*Make a donation.