Games industry veterans across the UK are calling on the British government to champion the sector by officially recognizing and funding a British Games Institute (BGI).

The BGI campaign was launched earlier this year, and is now looking to gather more momentum through petitioning website Change.org.

Games Workshop co-founder and former Eidos CEO Ian Livingstone is leading the charge, and says it's time the government showed its support for an industry that contributes over £1.2 billion ($1.58 billion) to the UK economy each year.

The proposed BGI would be modeled on the British Film Institute, and would look to "support future growth by driving innovation and opportunities in the sector."

"Some of the most creative and competitive games studios in the world are based in the UK, yet almost all UK games companies struggle to raise finance and access skills, and have to fight against low public recognition of our amazing art form," said Livingstone.

"The BGI's programmes will help address these challenges. I'm convinced that the BGI can increase the level of investment, widen games' cultural impact and source the skills our studios need to stay world-class."

The BGI has been backed by trade bodies UKIE and TIGA, along with over 500 senior games, investment, arts, and education figures.

You can find out more about the campaign, including how to show your support, over on the BGI website.