CHILWORTH residents are urged to show their support for the village's newly-formed conservation group at its first fundraising event tomorrow.

The Chilworth Conservation Society - launched to protect the character of the village - is holding an auction of promises.

Retired Romsey auctioneer Michael Baker will take bids for promises by local people and businesses.

Lots include dinner for two and an overnight stay at the Chilworth Manor, a meal at the Hilton and a magic show by an eight-year-old boy from Chilworth.

There will also be a bar, a silent auction, a sale of cards with drawings of the village by former resident John Fowler, and music provided by The Blue Stars jazz band with singer Sylvia Bird.

Residents will also hear a talk on preparing a village design statement for Chilworth, which can be used to influence the way future planning applications are handled.

Chilworth Residents Committee chairman Alison Finlay said: "It should be a great event which we hope lots of people will come along and support.

"The money raised will be used to pay for professional advice to help us achieve our aim of preserving the area, as well as an initial project to preserve and maintain the old Roman road in Chilworth."

The event starts at 8pm at Chilworth Village Hall in Chilworth Road.