Beckham sends message of support for Christchurch (watch)

David Beckham.

English footballer David Beckham is the latest in a list of stars urging people around the world to donate to the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal.

He joins celebrities who backed the appeal in an earlier video, such as American cyclist Lance Armstrong and The Who's rocker Pete Townshend, Australian actor Russell Crowe, comedian Rhys Darby and US tennis player Serena Williams.

"On February 22nd at 12.51, a terrible earthquake struck that beautiful city and I encourage everyone to support this Appeal and help the thousands of people who lost their lives and have been torn apart," Beckham says in the video clip. "Please, donate today."

Mark Weldon, the Prime Minister's personal representative on the

Christchurch Earthquake Appeal

, said it was important not to forget about Christchurch as life moved on after the rescue phase.

"Christchurch still needs us. People like David Beckham - and celebrities like Lance Armstrong and Pete Townshend from the earlier video - recognise that, and we're grateful to them for lending their support in this way."

Amazing Race host Phil Keoghan will also host a Christchurch earthquake fundraiser to be held at the New Zealand Embassy in Washington, DC on Thursday (local time).

Watch David Beckham's message for Christchurch:

Video featuring Russell Crowe, Lance Armstrong and other celebrities:

- NZPA