Thousands of people have taken part in a demonstration through the Thai capital, Bangkok, in support of a nationwide campaign to donate foreign currency to boost the government's revenue and support the Thai baht.

The campaign is part of the government's attempts to encourage Thais to work together to overcome the country's economic difficulties.

Led by a military brass band, thousands of people waving the national flag marched through the centre of Bangkok. Most of them were workers from banks or government agencies wearing their office suits and skirts.

Some carried slogans calling on people to make sacrifices for the good of the nation. The demonstration was jointly organised by the government and the military.

They are both urging Thais to exchange dollars or foreign currency to boost the nation's depleted finances and support the country's battered currency, the baht.

Over the past week the baht has continued to hit successive lows against the dollar. So far the campaign has had an encouraging response.

Television news bulletins have shown hundreds of people across the country queuing up to exchange the few crumpled one dollar notes that they have.

Many people say it is their duty to help the nation at times of crisis. But the BBC Bangkok correspondent says there is also a growing anxiety that the economic suffering appears to be never-ending.

Union leaders have threatened nationwide protests unless the situation improves soon. Our correspondent says that the government is hoping that by encouraging people to help the economy, it can keep the country united behind its policies and prevent social unrest.

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