ST GEORGE'S, Grenada (CMC):

Grenada is preparing a massive homecoming for world and Olympic 400 metres champion Kirani James, who arrives in the island today.

Organisers have announced that a welcome party of government officials, family members, as well as members of James local track and field club Speedzone, will be at the Maurice Bishop International Airport.

Chairperson of the planning committee Lana McPhael says all Grenadians have been invited to the airport ceremony.

"There is a subcommittee that is meeting as we speak, putting the final touches in place," said McPhael, the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Tourism.

"But we are hoping that Grenadians of all sectors would come out. We want to give Kirani a massive welcome."

Hundreds celebrated across the country when James won the 400 metres at the London Olympics earlier this month.

The 19-year-old, also the reigning World champion, created history by securing Grenada's first Olympic medal and the first gold for the OECS subgrouping.

The celebrations planned this weekend include a ceremony on Saturday at the Kirani James Boulevard, an area on the outskirts of the capital named in his honour after he won the World title in Daegu last year.

Also planned is a round-the-island motorcade passing through his west coast hometown of Gouyave and climaxing with a rally at the National Stadium in St George's.

James turns 20 on Saturday and government officials have said that a major surprise is in store for him.