Been there,done that – and got the Pope'sT-shirt

Mark Casci

THE Pope’s visit to the UK next week is to be commemorated by a series of fashion accessories and trinkets.

Those wishing to mark the occasion can buy a Pope Benedict XVI T-shirt, offset with matching jacket and baseball cap.

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Kitting yourself out in the latest papal gear ahead of the Pontiff’s visit could set you back by nearly 80 for a complete outfit, with a commemorative brochure of official merchandise now available.

Key rings and fridge magnets go at 5 a pop, with the proceeds going towards the work of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference in the UK.

The introduction declares: “That the Pontiff receives an ecstatic reception is beyond doubt. The excitement of this very special visit is shared right around the UK, and not only among the Holy Father’s flock.”

Meanwhile the Pope’s visit to Britain will be met with an unprecedented police operation across the country.

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South Yorkshire Police Chief Constable Meredydd Hughes, who is co-ordinating the police operation, said no previous state visit had involved so many different sites around the country. It was unusual for such dignitaries to “venture outside of London”, he said.

“It is different because this blend of civil event and religious event is something we have to look at.”

Nobody wants “a giant security operation with a religious service bolted on the back”, he said.

Pope Benedict is due to arrive next week on a four-day visit that will see him attend events in London, Scotland and the West Midlands. His itinerary will include an evening prayer vigil in Hyde Park in London on Saturday September 18.