Archbishop follows in St Patrick's steps

Archbishop Sean Brady will climb Croagh Patrick

Ireland's leading Catholic clergyman has become the first Archbishop of Armagh since the time of St Patrick to climb Croagh Patrick.

Dr Sean Brady ascended the County Mayo mountain where a pilgrimage takes place every year.

The Archbishop of Tuam, Dr Michael Neary, dedicated the theme of this year's pilgrimage to those people who have made Ireland their new home.

The pilgrimage is associated with St Patrick who, in the year 441, is said to have spent 40 days and nights fasting on the summit of the mountain.

The pilgrimage took place over the weekend.

A Catholic Church spokesman said: "This pilgrimage has been carried out uninterrupted for over 1,500 years.

Croagh Patrick has over 100,000 visitors annually

"Reek Sunday 2005 marked the centenary of the oratory on the summit and a special plaque was unveiled there last year."

More than 100,000 people visit Croagh Patrick each year, and up to 30,000 were expected on the mountain this weekend.

High winds and frequent showers made walking conditions difficult for the pilgrims, who had been advised to bring good footwear, suitable clothing, a stick and water.