THE new Archbishop of York is to make his first official visit to the Blackburn Diocese this weekend.

The Most Reverend and Right Honourable David Hope will visit towns throughout the county including Blackburn, Preston, Lancaster, Blackpool, Nelson and Pendle.

"This is a very important occasion for the Diocese," said the Bishop of Blackburn, the Right Reverend Alan Chesters. "We hope as many people as possible will be able to meet the Archbishop during his time with us."

On Friday, he will address all the clergy and other church representatives at a special service at Blackburn Cathedral at 7.30pm.

The Archbishop, who is the head of the Northern Province of the Church of England, will also meet leaders of other churches and faiths in Preston on Saturday and will be learning about work in prisons, church schools and work among minority communities.

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