An appeal that gives people a unique chance to write their name in St Albans’ history has raised in excess of £40,000.

There is still time for others to join in and also have their name engraved on an ‘honours board’ at the new museum and art gallery.

The oak panel honours boards are part of a £7.75 million project to convert the Town Hall into a state-of-the-art museum and exhibition space.

They will be etched with the names of donors and hung from the walls of a ‘benefactors’ walk of fame’.

This corridor will form one of the building’s major walkways, connecting the new basement gallery and the Georgian prison cells.

Mike Gray, chairman of the St Albans Museums and Galleries Trust, said: “There has been an outstanding response to the oak panel boards which have really captured people’s imagination.

“It is a fantastic way of rewarding people of giving some financial support to this historic project.

“There are limited number of boards, so people who are interested should waste no time in getting in touch with our fund-raising team.

“People want to be associated with this project which will transform the town centre and create a truly landmark building.”

For a £250, your name or that of someone close to you will be carved into the boards which will be seen by thousands of visitors.

The idea was inspired by the courtroom’s wooden walls and graffiti left by prisoners.

A professional artist will arrange the names using different typefaces and font sizes to create an eye-catching design.

The appeal was launched only last month under the slogan – ‘become part of the St Albans story’.

Other sponsorship packages and naming opportunities are available for both individuals and companies.

The amounts range from £500 to £250,000 and offer high-profile involvement.

Richard Shwe, head of the council’s community services, said: “There are a number of ways to have your name or a company name attached to this amazing project.

“The new museum and art gallery will be a huge visitor attraction for individuals, families, schools and tourists. It will be a great venue to meet people, to learn and to hold corporate events.”

To make a donation and have your name engraved, visit www.honoursboard.org.uk.

Donation forms are also available from the Visitor Information Centre in the Alban Arena.