Dozens of pilgrims have been heading towards the national shrine at Walsingham in the annual Student Cross pilgrimage which is now in its 61st year.The walkers, in 10 groups and each group carrying its own large wooden cross, set out from various locations, including Kettering, Leicester, Colchester and Oxford all heading towards one of the country's most historic sacred places in the North Norfolk countryside.

Dozens of pilgrims have been heading towards the national shrine at Walsingham in the annual Student Cross pilgrimage which is now in its 61st year.

The walkers, in 10 groups and each group carrying its own large wooden cross, set out from various locations, including Kettering, Leicester, Colchester and Oxford all heading towards one of the country's most historic sacred places in the North Norfolk countryside. Once in Walsingham the walkers will be taking part in the programme of Easter services.

The groups are due to arrive in Walsingham tomorrow when they will then walk along the famous Holy Mile, on the outskirts of the village.

General organising director, Felicity Cairns, said that this was the event's 61st year and around 280 people, including children in family groups, have been taking part this year.

“We see ourselves as an act of witness as we head towards the Shrine at Walsingham and we have been again impressed by the amazing generosity and warm hospitality shown to us by people we meet along the way. People have been making food for us and inviting us into their homes. It has been a real humbling experience for us,” said Ms Cairns.