To help maintain awareness of the plight of Alan Johnston, the BBC is asking the public to send in birthday cards for the missing journalist to the BBC World Service.

Gaza correspondent Johnston, who will be 45-years-old on Thursday May 17, has not been seen since he was seized at gunpoint in Gaza City on March 12.

Those wishing to send birthday wishes should address cards for him to the World Affairs Unit, Room 410SE, BBC Bush House, The Strand, London WC2B 4PH.

Last week, Johnston was named broadcasting journalist of the year at the annual London Press Club awards, where the BBC director-general Mark Thompson paid tribute to him and the courage of his family.