A new bilingual camino-style pilgrim walk around sites associated with St Patrick in Co Down got under way for the first time yesterday.
The walk is the latest offering from the St Patrick Centre in Downpatrick, where former Adortation Sisters Martina Purdy and Elaine Kelly are involved in leading several ‘St Patrick’s Way’ walking experiences.
The new 10-mile tour is conducted in both Irish and English and led by Jean O’Neill.
The inaugural walk was launched yesterday by Irish language activist Linda Ervine at Saul Church of Ireland.
As well as Saul - where St Patrick established his first church - the tour takes in the saint’s national monument at Slieve Patrick, overlooking Strangford Lough, and Struell Wells, a place of pilgrimage for centuries because of its holy wells.
St Patrick’s Catholic Church and the saint’s grave at Down Cathedral are further stopping points.
Further information about the St Patrick’s Way guided tour is available by calling 028 4461 9000 or online at www.saintpatrickcentre.com