THE Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, will be making a three day visit to Gloucestershire and special pilgrimages to the Forest of Dean next month.

The visit has been given the title 'Share the Light' and the diocese says much work has gone into putting together a programme of events which will allow as many people as possible to share in and be part of the visit.

On Sunday July 22 three mini pilgrimages have been arranged in the Forest of Dean, which will lead people to Newland, where a special service is being held at All Saint's Church.

The pilgrimages will be led by Archbishop Rowan together with the Bishop of Gloucester, the Right Rev Michael Perham and the Bishop of Tewkesbury, the Right Rev John Went.

The pilgrimages are open to all and start at 9.30am at Coleford, Clearwell and Redbrook and each are about a mile and a half long. They are varied and interesting walks between parts of an ancient extensive Forest parish. They pass fields, woods, water, agricultural, forestry and industrial activity along the way.

The pilgrimages end in Newland, where a special service is being held at 11am in All Saint's Church, at which Archbishop Rowan will preach.

"All are welcome to the service to enjoy local choirs, inspiring music and worship. There are special activities for children and people can enjoy refreshments after the service," says the diocese.

Dr Williams recently announced he is to retire from his post.