HUNDREDS of Romany Gyspies have arrived in a Hampshire village as they celebrate a Christian festival. 

The group set up on a field in Curdridge on Sunday, with extra people arriving on Monday, June 26.  

It has been organised by the Light and Life Missionary Church, a Romani-led evangelical (Pentecostal) Christian movement.

The festival is expected to last all week, with two religious services held each day in the encampment, and most of the attendees are expected to leave on Friday. 

The festival is an annual event that takes place in different locations each year. 

Their arrival has caused a stir in the community, with many posting on local community social media groups. 

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Residents have reported seeing scores of caravans and trailers, a blue and white marquee and portaloos being installed. They have also reported hearing music.

It is understood farmer Bob Woodley has given the festival permission to be held on his land. 

A letter has been sent to local residents from Winchester City Council and Curdridge Parish Council saying they had been 'unaware' of the activity until it appeared on social media. They held an informal meeting on Monday evening. 

The letter said: "Winchester City Council's legal team have been engaging with city councillors and confirmed that an events licence should have been applied for, as well as other associated health and safety/highways permissions being needed.

"These applications have not been made and therefore, Winchester City Council are following a formal process with the landowner on this matter. 

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"Council representatives had a cordial meeting with the event organiser and asked that he pass on to the gathered community, our request that the village and its residents are treated with respect and privacy.

"We agreed in return that we would ask residents to show the same behaviour towards this temporary gathering and the landowner."

The letter said they would 'closely monitor the event and work on behalf of residents, to minimise where possible, the impact this gathering is having on the village community.'

There have been other camps also pitching up on land nearby, and it is not known if the parties are connected. 

A group of caravans has set up in nearby Shedfield on the Common and at the Recreation Ground.