The stars have come out for Gaby's Deli, which is threatened by developers after serving falafel and salt beef to West End crowds for nearly 50 years.

Actor Henry Goodman and political satirist Alistair Beaton were involved in the first Cabaret Falafel in support of the Charing Cross Road landmark.

In January, actor Simon Callow will be among the cast of a play at the deli by novelist Roma Tearne.

The kosher-style deli was established by Baghdad-born, Jewish caterer Gaby Elyahou in 1965. Redevelopers Gascoyne Holdings have planning permission to evict Gaby's in May to make way for a restaurant chain outlet.

Ken Livingstone, director Mike Leigh and actresses Vanessa Redgrave and Miriam Margolyes are among other celebrity supporters. Over 4,600 people have signed a petition to save Gaby's.

Mr Leigh said Gaby's was "unique and special. To allow it to be destroyed would be deeply irresponsible."