A HOST of musicians, actors, broadcasters and other prominent figures are all urging Brighton voters to stick with Caroline Lucas this election.

Sir David Attenborough, satirist Rory Bremner, model Lily Cole and author Michael Morpurgo are among 40 stellar public figures who are backing Ms Lucas’s bid for re-election in Brighton Pavilion.

Stars of TV and film including Jeremy Irons, Joanna Lumley, Stephen Frears and Diana Quick as well as musicians Thom Yorke, Brian May and Billy Bragg are all giving their public support to the Green candidate.

Comedians Mark Thomas and Mark Steel, a leading campaigner against the privatisation of Hove Park School, have also giving their personal endorsement.

The star-laden nominations follow on from more localised personal endorsements this week from Albion life president Dick Knight and chamber of commerce president Julie Chanteray.

In a statement of support, the group said: “Most of us are not members of the Green Party, and many are not much involved in party politics.

"But we all feel it’s crucial that Caroline Lucas, the Green Party’s sole MP at this time, should be re-elected in her Brighton constituency on May 7.

“Regardless of our own political allegiance, we believe that our democracy can only be strengthened by maintaining such a strong and inspirational presence in Parliament.”

The statement goes on to praise Ms Lucas’s “eloquently” campaigning on climate change, sustainable farming, human rights and “a just and sustainable economy”.

Liberal Democrat rival for Brighton Pavilion Chris Bowers said: “I hope the Pavilion election is going to be decided on arguments and effectiveness, not on a parade of celebrity endorsements.

“All candidates offer a programme for Brighton's residents, and decisions should be made on who can best represent us at Westminster, not on how many famous friends we have."