King Arthur buffs from all over the world will be descending on Winchester next month to attend a conference hosted by University College Winchester.

Entitled "(Re) Creating King Arthur", it will take place from August 4th-6th at the college's West Downs Centre, on Romsey Road.

Ecowarrior, "King" Arthur Pendragon, will open the event with his sword, "Excalibur" and a wide range of topics will be covered, with emphasis on what has come to be known as the "Arthurian phenomenon" in today's society.

Seen by many as "home" of the legendary monarch and of the celebrated Round Table, Winchester was seen as the ideal location to hold such discussions.

The event also coincides with the release of the film, King Arthur, starring Keira Knightley, as Guinevere and Clive Owen, as Arthur.

More than 50 speakers from countries including the UK, USA, Russia, Israel and the Philippines will be reflecting on the impact that the Arthurian myth has had across the globe.

A spokesman for the university, formerly King Alfred's College, said this was the first time the university had hosted a conference in King Arthur's honour and they have been stunned by the sheer level of international interest the event had already generated.

The conference organisers say they are confident that a successful book will emerge from the papers.

Run in conjunction with the International Medieval Congress, the medieval theme will continue culminating in a banquet on the final night.