Pope confirms visit to Scotland

The Pope has confirmed that he will visit Scotland as part of his trip to Britain later this year.

Pope Benedict XVI told Scottish Catholic bishops gathered in Rome that he looked forward to being with them on their native soil. 

Jim  who is co-ordinating the Papal visit to Britain, said: "I am delighted that the Pope has now confirmed he will visit Scotland in the autumn.

"There has been a lot of work behind the scenes to make this happen and I travelled to the Vatican to meet the Holy Father in October last year.

"I am sure this is going to be a hugely successful visit and that the Pope will receive a very warm welcome from across Scotland.

"It will be very special day.

"It will be a beautiful occasion and a chance for Scots of all faiths to celebrate and to say that faith still matters in Scotland.

"We will announce the details of the four-day visit shortly."