MORE than 6,500 people are expected to attend the annual Convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses at the BIC next weekend.

Visitors from across the south, including the Channel Islands, are expected to attend the three-day event in Bournemouth.

The convention is just one of 21 taking place across Britain throughout the summer.

It has proved to be an extremely popular event in recent years and organisers encourage members of the public to come along.

This year’s convention focuses on the theme “Be Courageous”.

David A Semonian, a spokesman at the Witnesses’ world headquarters, said: “When you look at the news today, you can clearly see that people of all ages are dealing with more anxieties and fears than ever before.

“It takes courage to face these pressures. We welcome everyone to this year’s convention to benefit from the practical advice that’s contained in the Bible.”

The convention will feature 54 presentations, including talks, audio dramas, interviews, and short videos over the three days, each exploring the overall theme.

The highlight of Sunday’s programme will be the feature length movie, The Story of Jonah—A Lesson in Courage and Mercy.

The convention is an open event and admission is free of charge across three days.

While the event opens on Friday with slightly small crowds expected, large numbers are anticipated on Saturday and Sunday.

Matthew Furneaux, who is involved in the organisation of the convention, said the area has hosted a convention for the last 50 to 60 years.

“Although it is for Jehovah’s Witnesses it is open to the public and we welcome people to come visit.

“We have attempted to reach out to people in recent weeks - it is very much a public event.”

Mr Furneaux said the theme of this year’s convention can be linked to all walks of life.

“Be courageous can apply to everyone, whether that is children in school, parents and families, or people in the workplace.

“The convention is now quite fast paced and direct, which visitors often find engaging and more relatable.

“When people do come along for the first time they might just come for an hour, but they take a lot away from it.”