The creators of a Birmingham Wall of Fame have launched a public consultation to find the region's best writers and poets.

The winners will be immortalised at an exhibit in the City Plaza shopping centre, in central Birmingham.

Eventually, the Wall of Fame will feature leading figures from all aspects of showbusiness and the arts, as well as sport, business and politics.

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To start with, organisers are choosing the best contemporary writer and best historic writer.

A shortlist will be compiled based on suggestions from the public and the advice of experts.

The final choices will be made by telephone poll.

Birmingham councillor and MP John Hemming (Lib Dem Yardley) and local historian Carl Chinn are behind the scheme.

Names already being considered include William Shakespeare, JRR Tolkien, DH Lawrence, Philip Larkin, Wilfred Owen, Meera Syal and Benjamin Zephaniah.

Mr Hemming said: "Once we have the results of the consultation the first exhibit in the wall of fame will be unveiled at City Plaza.

"In future months we will be dealing with other subjects including drama, light-entertainment and comedy, science, medicine, literature, industry, academia, sport, music, jazz music, classical music, best contribution to the community, top regional media personality and politics."

The exhibit has been inspired by attractions such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the "Avenue of the Stars" in London.