PEOPLE from places called Whitchurch around the world are being invited to get together for a celebratory event next year.

The unusual event will bring together towns, municipalities, villages and hamlets from across England, Wales and Canada, who are united by their shared name.

A meeting of Whitchurch Town Council heard how a committee has been formed to organise a three-day event which will take place in the Hampshire town next summer, over July 17,18 and 19.

Paul Driver explained that 13 Whitchurches in England, Wales and Canada have been found and of these, eight have shown an interest in sending representatives to Whitchurch, Hampshire next summer for the special event.

Mr Driver, who is a member of Whitchurch football club and social club, is on the independent committee which is organising the event.

He said: “We are not looking to raise loads of money and any money that we do make would go towards an event the following year.

“This started off as a sporting idea which has grown into an idea for a cultural weekend. We want to involve local businesses, local sport teams, churches, the Silk Mill and local gardens.”

Mr Driver explained that money would be raised through programmes which will be sold at the event. He added: “We will invite local businesses to advertise at a minimal cost and they will give something back, like discount vouchers, for instance.

“Hopefully, this event will be good for local busines-ses and will raise the profile of the town nationally.”

He told the council that recruits are being sought for the organising committee, and it would soon be applying to the council for start-up costs, which they hope to pay back.

Cllr David George praised Mr Driver for “taking the initiative”. He said: “This sounds like a great idea. Anything to promote local businesses is to be applauded. I would like to thank Paul for taking the initiative.”

Council chairman Cllr Mike Kean agreed, and wished the committee the best of luck with their ambitious venture.