THE idea almost beggars belief - tourism chiefs in Hampshire want to ditch one of the historic symbols of the county town.

King Alfred is known as the man who defeated the Vikings, one of the greatest figures of British history from whose Winchester home he ruled the kingdom of Wessex during Saxon times.

But now, in a bizarre twist of fate, King Alfred, whose statue in the city centre has become one of Winchester's landmarks, could be getting the chop.

Tourism chiefs want to rebrand the historic city's image and ditch the familiar King Alfred logo which has become Winchester's branding.

Instead, they are now looking for something more up-to-date to promote Winchester's modern attractions. Their decision follows months of public consultation by the city's tourist board.

However the news has prompted an angry backlash from people who describe the plan as absurd.

Councillor George Holingbery said: "We would be hard-pressed to find anything more symbolic for the region than a representation of England's greatest king."

Today the Daily Echo pledges to save King Alfred.

We believe the great Saxon king should remain the symbol of Winchester and not be consigned to the history books.

Winchester was his home and it was from there he ruled Wessex and became one of this country's most famous monarchs.

Could you imagine Stratford upon Avon without William Shakespeare or Portsmouth without Admiral Horatio Nelson?

If you agree and want to join our battle to save the great monarch, then contact Chris Semple at the Daily Echo's Winchester office on 01962 854355 or e-mail chris.semple@soton-echo.co.uk.