A NEW Patron has been announced for next year's Romsey Festival.

The Countness Mountbatten of Burma is set become the patron of the festival which will take place in July next year.

The festival has a long standing history in the market town and has been held once every three years since 1984.

Liz Wagner, Chair of Festival 2020, said: “We are delighted that The Countess Mountbatten of Burma has joined us as our Patron. Romsey Festival 2020 is very much about showcasing the amazing cultural strength of Romsey and we will enjoy sharing events with the Countess

According to organisers, the festival programme is coming together and promises to be an exciting blend of music, song, history and fascinating exhibitions and activities.

Many community groups have already committed to take part, The Abbey will feature as a music venue, exhibition hall for a Quilters Exhibition and for Hampshire Calligraphers to display their amazing talent.

Other churches in Romsey will invite Festival goers into their buildings to enjoy concerts and exhibitions.

The Town Hall not only hosts the Festival launch event but will also host concerts and talks in the Council Chamber.

Modellers will take over the Abbey URC Hall and the Crosfield Hall, Viewfinders photographic exhibition at King John’s House and special events at Sir Harold Hillier’s Garden and the National Trust at Mottisfont Abbey and others will hold special events throughout the festival.

Romsey Festival will be a key feature of the Test Valley Year of Culture 2020.

Mark Edgerley, Romsey Town Centre Manager, said “The year 2020 will see Romsey as the centre for many cultural events with the Romsey Festival showcasing the talent within our community. "All ages will be represented and we hope the programme will have something for everyone with many events free to enter”