Calls have been made to create an eye-catching 'Hollywood' style sign in Folkestone.

The idea has come from James Gillen, 29, who thinks a big white sign spelling Folkestone and sitting on the surrounding hills would help put the town on the map.

He has now launched a petition on Change.org in a bid to get the ball rolling.

James, from the town, said: "Folkestone is becoming a brilliant place for creativity and art.

"I had the idea for the sign whilst walking along the top of the Harbour Arm.

"The town is surrounded by dramatic hills, clearly visible from the Harbour Arm, Radnor Park and many other parts of the town.

"There's a clear area on the hills (without trees) that sparked an idea in my head, let's build a Hollywood style sign for Folkestone!"

"I thought it would be a striking addition to the creative new area in the town.

"Plus I believe it’d be a great photo opportunity for visitors."

James, co-founder of international community art project Mail Art, has gained 71 signatures so far on his petition.

And it has gathered a few positive comments.

Jackie Merriman said: "I absolutely love this idea."

Juliette Felton said: "Anything that advertises our beautiful town is fine by me."

Emily Cadwallader posted: "Why not have a sign, bit of fun and in the Instagram world it’d be a popular shot, hurrah for advertising our town!

"Might be a bit of a target for vandals is my only concern..."

The Hollywood Sign is an American landmark overlooking Hollywood in Los Angeles.

It is spelled out in 45 ft tall white capital letters and is 352 ft long.

The sign was originally created in 1923 as an advertisement for a local real estate development, but due to increasing recognition it was left up.

It makes frequent appearances in popular culture, particularly in establishing shots for films and television programs set in or around Hollywood.

Once he reaches his target number of signatures, James plans to present the petition to the council.

James added: "If the council could build it that would be great, I understand their budgets are a factor though of course.

"Perhaps Roger de Haan and Creative Folkestone may consider investing too."

To sign the petition, click here.

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