Bradford's bid to become Capital of Culture is being given a celebrity stamp of approval.

Big names appearing at the Alhambra and St George's Hall are being asked to sign a book showing their support for the bid.

And other entertainment venues and sports clubs in the city are being urged to take part in the scheme.

The newly-launched book, which will be used as part of Bradford's bid for the 2008 culture title, has already been signed by stars Jonathan Morris and Gemma Craven, who starred in the musical Anything Goes which ran at St George's Hall last week.

And yesterday actors Simon Williams and Stephanie Beacham, stars of Nobody's Perfect which is running at the Alhambra this week, added their names.

Alhambra general manager John Botteley said: "They have all been delighted to support Bradford's bid.

"We will run the project over the next six to nine months to get as much support as possible before the bid is submitted. The book could be included as part of the bid.

"We have already seen, through the public consultation which the Telegraph & Argus is helping with, that there is a lot of support from Bradford people. There have been some terrific ideas coming through.

"But we also need to show that Bradford's bid is attracting support from people outside the district - recognisable people.

"In the light of Bradford's recent problems this is imperative."

Abi Ekoku, chief executive of Bradford Bulls, said he would look into having the book at the club for big rugby names to sign.

"It is a great idea," he said. "In the light of recent events in Bradford it's a fantastic opportunity to turn a little bit of despair into optimism. It gives the city a fresh focus.

"Showing that there is support from outside the district will hopefully galvanise others within Bradford to get behind the bid."

Bradford City Football Club chairman Geoffrey Richmond said: "It is a very good idea and we would be happy to run the scheme here at the club."

Bradford's Capital of Culture bid, which will be submitted to the Government next March, must show there is full public support for it. It will be put together later this summer by a team commissioned by Bradford Council.

An endorsement by big names in the world of sport and entertainment will add weight to Bradford's bid, putting it ahead of other cities competing for the title, including Liverpool and Birmingham.

Newcastle suffered a blow to its Capital of Culture bid this week when it was announced that the BBC Radio 1 Love Parade - due to be held in the city this summer - had been cancelled due to safety concerns.