The front page of The News today shows the faces of 100 people who back our Arise Sir Harry campaign to see the Pompey boss made a Sir.

And that's just the tip of the iceberg as readers flood our offices and website at www.portsmouth.co.uk with pledges of support.

The News is going to ask Downing Street to recommend Harry to be honoured and we're calling on readers to help by signing a petition to back us.

>> Click here to sign or download our petition.

Among the fans pictured on the front page is Mark Nash, 24, of Friary Close, Southsea. He said: 'Harry should be first on the list to get knighted for everything he's done, not only for Portsmouth but for other clubs as well. I think everyone in the UK loves Harry for one reason or another.'

Tim Raw, 25, of St Edwards Road, Southsea, said: 'They knighted Alex Ferguson when he won the treble in 1999. Harry's achievement in transforming Pompey from a side struggling in the bowels of the second tier of English football to FA Cup champions in just six years is every bit as impressive as what Manchester United have achieved in the last couple of decades.'

Cyril Saunders, 71, of Carshalton Avenue, Drayton, said: 'He's done more for football over a longer period of time than some other people who've been knighted.'

Paul Coates, 39, of Methuen Road, Eastney, said: 'If Sir Alex Ferguson can get a knighthood for doing the job with so many more resources, I don't see why Harry shouldn't be recognised too.'

Jean Louth, 74, of Wakefords Way, Havant, said: 'I think it would be a really good idea – brilliant. There was a time that Pompey were in the fourth division and he has brought them up and up – and now look at them.'

Philip Swan, of Forever Blue who recorded the official FA Cup final song, We're on Our Way, said: 'Harry Redknapp is a great ambassador to the sport and it would be a fantastic thing for him to be knighted. He's a tremendous guy. He's got time for everybody.'

And even far-flung Pompey fans are backing the campaign.

Chris Quinell, 54, from Perth, Australia, said: 'Harry deserves to be honoured. The Manchester United lot get knighted at the drop of a hat. Harry has done wonders with the resources he's had.'

Yesterday, city leaders gave their backing to the campaign as well, and more are doing so today.

Pompey fan and Portsmouth North MP Sarah McCarthy-Fry said: 'I'm delighted to support the campaign.

'Harry's done so much for Portsmouth and for football in general. He's an inspiration.'