MORE than 10,000 tributes to Nelson Mandela were left by Lewisham residents at a memorial mural to the inspirational South African leader.

His death prompted thousands of Lewisham people to write words of forgiveness and remembrance at a temporary mural in Lewisham Shopping Centre.

One message read: "An inspiration to young and old on how best to respect yourself and others as well as fight for freedom and truth."

A permanent memorial in Lewisham is now planned in honour of the anti-apartheid political prisoner by Deptford-based social enterprise Share Think and Act cic.

Michael Hamilton from Share Think and Act cic, which coordinated the temporary mural, said: "This is just the start, not the end, of commemorating his legacy.

"We hope that with this memorial we will also be able to capture the commitment and support that ordinary people from the borough gave to the anti-apartheid movement during the struggle."

To find out more and leave a message visit www.facebook.com/lewishamhonouringmandela