IT IS an event that will bring together Whitchurch natives from across the globe.

People who are united by the name of their municipalities, villages and hamlets will come together next summer for a special celebration in the Hampshire town.

Residents from 11 Whitchurches around the world have already signed up to visit the south coast of England to take part in the gathering – including a group from Canada.

Organisers have sent invitations to residents of 13 places by the name of Whitchurch requesting their attendance on 17, 18 and 19 July next year.

Among those making plans for the visit are natives of Whitchurch- Stouffville, a municipality in the Greater Toronto area of Canada, as well as people from Ireland, Scotland and Wales – a response that has surprised those behind the event.

Paul Driver, a member of Whitchurch football and social club who is on the independent organising committee, said: “It started off as a sporting idea which has grown into an idea for a cultural weekend.

“We sent the invitations out to the others on the off chance really. We didn’t expect as many to come back to us – it’s great! The event is all about raising the profile of Whitchurch here and in other parts of the world.

“The committee has already been building partnerships around the town and several local groups have agreed to play their part including Testbourne Community Centre and the Whitchurch Silk Mill. We want to involve local businesses, sport teams, churches, the Silk Mill and gardens.”

Paul said the committee is hoping to fund the occasion by selling programmes throughout the three-day extravaganza, while also applying for start-up costs from Whitchurch Town Council.

He said: “We will invite 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 businesses and will raise the profile of the town nationally.

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

Councillor David George 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.”