DORSET’s only resident bishop is inviting residents to join her in a pilgrimage to one of the county’s most historic spots.

The Right Reverend Karen Gorham, Bishop of Sherborne, will lead a pilgrimage to the Norman Chapel of St Aldhelm, near Worth Matravers, as part of a period of national prayer organised by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

The pilgrimage will take place on Thursday, May 25, coinciding with the holy day of St Aldhelm and the feast of Ascension in the Christian calendar.

Revd Gorham said: “Tiny St Aldhelm’s is a very special place, perched on top of high cliffs, and accessible only on foot. It’s a thin place where it’s easy to feel the gap between heaven and earth narrowing.

“We’ll walk the mile or so from the car park together and then have a short act of worship at the chapel. This will be part of Thy Kingdom Come, a great wave of prayer taking place across England and beyond.”

Walkers are invited to bring a picnic to enjoy either on the cliffs or in St Nicholas depending on the weather.

Revd Gorham, who is keen to promote pilgrimage across Dorset, added: “The pilgrimage is open to everyone, whatever their religious views.

“Many people, whether or not they are churchgoers, visit places of spiritual interest and sometimes discover a little piece of heaven.

“St Aldhelm was the first Bishop of Sherborne, so I am his direct successor – I was made a bishop 1,311 years after he was.

“The county’s many chapels, shrines and holy wells allow people to touch the transcendent right here on our own doorstep.”

Pilgrims should meet before 10.30am at the Renscombe Farm car park and expect a rugged pathway of 1.5 miles leading to the chapel. Dogs are welcome.

Vehicle access is not permitted. If mobility is a concern a special all terrain coach will be available.