PUPILS from two church schools met the Archbishop of York on Friday.

Dr David Hope visited Leigh and Atherton in a whistle-stop tour of the Manchester Diocese.

And his first call - accompanied by the Bishop of Bolton, Rt Rev David Bonsor - was at Hesketh Fletcher CE Deanery High School.

During his 90-minute stopover he addressed the lower school assembly and spoke to staff and governors, including the chairman, Rev Bill Baldwin (Team Rector of Atherton), Rev David Bracey (St. Michael's, Howe Bridge)

In preparation for the visit, first year pupils spent Monday on a day retreat at Liverpool Cathedral involved in various workshops. Their work was examined by the Archbishop .

From Atherton, the Archbishop travelled to Leigh CE Primary School. He was welcomed by the Vicar of Leigh and chairman of governors, Canon Jack Finney, and headteacher Beryl Marsden.

He saw a short assembly and watched part of the Christmas production - Baboushka - by Year 2 pupils.

The Archbishop's visit marks the 150th Celebrations of the formation of the Manchester Diocese and Mrs Marsden said: "We were thrilled and excited to have been chosen as representing primary education in the Diocese. It is an honour not only for the school and parish but for the town of Leigh."

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