PEOPLE can now donate to the campaign for Walls of Remembrance in Southampton by phone and text.

Readers can add to the fundraising total by taking a few seconds to call our pledgeline or tapping out a short text message.

They will also be able to make donations at home or work by logging on to our website.

Cash collection tins have already been installed at all our offices alongside other points around the city.

The money raised will go towards the campaign to build two memorial walls alongside the city’s Cenotaph in Watt’s Park to honour all the city’s war dead by name.

It was launched by civic and business leaders with the backing of the Southampton branch of the Royal British Legion Council chiefs came up with the proposal as a way for safeguarding the names of the 2,000 First World War heroes on the 1920 monument, which are in danger of fading, and commemorating all those that have died in subsequent conflicts.

Individuals and companies have been making donations on a daily basis to the Southampton and Fareham Chamber of Commerce, which is spearheading the appeal.

Residents and employees are being urged to donate £1 each.

Guy Robinson, managing partner at Moore Stephens accountants in Southampton, which has already made a donation, said: “One of the strengths of every community is its ability to work together to get things done.

“Everyone today owes an enormous debt to those who have given their life to achieve the freedoms we have, and this appeal gives the Southampton business community a chance to show that appreciation.

“I am particularly pleased that all of our employees have supported the appeal to pledge £1 per employee.”

Southampton City Council has set aside £50,000 for the memorial walls project, leaving at least £70,000 to be raised.

The council decided they could not afford the £300,000 needed to fully restore the Cenotaph, although would continue to maintain it.

The Cenotaph was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens as a replica to the original one in Whitehall.

It was paid for by donations from local businesses and private individuals.