THE Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Rev Dr Rowan Williams, will be making a pilgrimage to Newland during a three day visit to Gloucestershire in July.

It will be the Archbishop's first trip to the Diocese of Gloucester in his official capacity since he was enthroned in February 2003.

'Share the light worshipping together' is a special service being held at All Saints Church, Newland, on Sunday July 22. The service will start at 11am, but three mini pilgrimages will start at 9.30am from Coleford , Redbrook and Clearwell, leading people to the service.

The Archbishop, the Bishop of Gloucester and Bishop of Tewkesbury will lead one each. All are welcome to the pilgrimages and the service.

The Bishop of Gloucester, the Rt Rev Michael Perham, said: "This visit is an exciting way to celebrate the work of the Church in and around Gloucestershire. It will be an honour to welcome our Archbishop to the Diocese of Gloucester, to listen to him and to share with him some of the wonderful work being done by Christians across the area.

"We are confident that this visit will do much to encourage the life of the Church locally, as well as giving people an opportunity to ask questions and find out more about the Christian faith."