Earlier this morning, Pope John Paul II departed from Rome for the start of his historic six days in Britain. David Dimbleby is at Gatwick Airport for this first-ever visit by a Pope to this country.

8.0 Welcome at Gatwick by Cardinal Hume and other dignitaries.
8.30* Departure by Train for Victoria Station.
8.35 John Tusa looks at the background and significance of this Pastoral Visit.
9.20* Arrival at Victoria Station and motorcade to Westminster Cathedral.
9.50* Westminster Cathedral
Pope John Paul II celebrates Mass with the Bishops of England and Wales before a congregation of 3,000 people inside the Cathedral and 1,500 gathered in the precincts. The Pope will also baptise and confirm five adults.
Commentators TOM FLEMING and MGR CRISPIAN HOLLIS
(The order of service: p 65).
12.15* Blessing of crowd in the Cathedral Piazza