Day 1: Travel to Wells and Induction

Pilgrims assemble at Redhill for the journey to Wells by coach; others make their way directly to Wells. After registration we join our first service of the pilgrimage, at Wells Cathedral.

Pilgrims gathered at Redhill, but no-one thought to take photos. The coach took the scenic route via the M25, M4 and M32 - first recorded sighting was at Membury Services.

On arrival pilgrims colonised the church hall - but they would have to squeeze up later as more and more pilgrims arrived.

Some went off into the town, others relaxed playing Scrabble.

Later the van arrived and was unloaded.

Pilgrims travelling by their own means arrived and brought more luggage into the hall.

We walked down to the Cathedral (St Andrew's) for Choral Evensong. It was clear that the exterior had been restored.

We walked up the nave of this impressive building...

...into the choir stalls for the service...

...if distracted, look up at the ceiling.

After the service, pilgrims were commissioned and received their crosses.

We left by the side aisle.

And posed outside the west front.

Patrick plays tricks on Father Richard...

...as we file past the Cathedral.

Bridget found a friend on the way back to the hall.

Back at the hall, sarnie bashing in the car park.

This year's cross, recognising the bicentenary of the abolition of the slave trade, represents a slave's-eye view of the beams and shackles above their head on the slave ships.

Al fresco dining...

Today's editor: Aidan Simons