HUNDREDS of people are expected to gather in Christchurch on Friday to remember those killed in the terrorist atrocities in Paris.

Father Tom Grufferty has invited the public to St Joseph's Catholic Church in Purewell a week on from the shootings and suicide bombings in the French capital.

He told the Daily Echo: "I was watching the news a lot over the weekend and I became convinced that we should stand together, believers and non-believers.

"The gathering will be open to all denominations and to those with no faith and we will light candles and listen to readings.

"There will also be the opportunity to look at some of the strong visuals that have been coming out of Paris since the attacks."

Father Grufferty said he has contacted many local groups, including churches and schools, and hopes hundreds of people will attend.

The event will take place between 7pm and 9pm with people encouraged to stay for as long or short a period of time as they wish.

Flyers have been distributed, bearing the words: "Love is stronger than hate."