Commons campaigners are calling for the Elgin marbles to be returned to Greece as a goodwill gesture to mark the 2004 Athens Olympics.

Led by Liberal Democrat MP, Richard Allan, celebrity supporters include actress Vanessa Redgrave and television presenter William G Stewart. Former Labour Party leader Michael Foot and former sports minister Tony Banks are also among the supporters.

The campaign is set to attract broad Westminster backing.

A 2000 Economist survey found 66 per cent of MPs supporting backed returning the marbles. And 93 MPs signed an early day motion on the issue, tabled by the Labour MP for Knowsley South Eddie O'Hara.

Supporters are asked to sign a statement, saying: "I would like the British government to make a commitment to return the Parthenon marbles to Greece by the time of the 2004 Athens Olympic Games. I believe that any obstacles to return may be overcome with sufficient goodwill and cooperation from the UK and Greek authorities."