PRIME Minister Gordon Brown today (12.02.09) pledged his support to The British Forces Foundation’s Lap of Honour initiative. The campaign is a ten-month driving adventure around the country getting 50 British icons to autograph one car, and 100 companies to lend their support.

By signing the car outside Number 10, the Prime Minister has joined an impressive list of British icons that now includes Sir Michael Caine, Lewis Hamilton, Kate Moss, Joe Calzaghe, Sir Elton John, David Beckham, Rod Stewart and Joanna Lumley.

The British Forces Foundation launched its Lap of Honour project in June 2008. Fronted by BFF Trustee Katherine Jenkins, the project marks the charity’s 10th anniversary year. The car will be given a high profile send off by auction house Bonhams on 3rd July at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Alongside the money raised at auction, a minimum of 100 selected major British brand names are being asked to donate £1,000 as a pledge of support to the men and women of the Armed Forces. At the half way stage, The Lap of Honour campaign is on a quest to bolster the kind donations already made to date.

BFF Director, Mark Cann, said: “The Lap of Honour is more than just a fundraising event for the Charity or a focal point to mark 10 years serving the Armed Forces. It is a celebration of the British link between companies, eminent icons and serving personnel. The very act of demonstrating support will send a clear message of solidarity to those on the frontline, which will in itself be a significant boost to their morale.

"I am so grateful to the companies who have already supported this campaign. In so doing, they send a powerful message of support to the young men and women of our Armed Forces, acknowledging the sacrifices they make on our behalf. I encourage others to follow their lead to help us hit our target.”

Gordon Brown said he was delighted and honoured to offer his support to The British Forces Foundation project. He said: "I know the work of The British Forces Foundation is much valued by the Armed Forces, in particular the way it encourages a dazzling array of performers to entertain personnel in the most hostile of environments.

"Despite today’s challenging economic conditions, I would encourage UK businesses to dig deep and donate to help the charity hit its £100,000 fund-raising target."

To sign up your support of The British Forces Foundation's Lap of Honour please contact Ben Vestey at benvestey@bff.org.uk