FIVE sick pilgrims will be visiting Lourdes this year, thanks to the efforts of parishioners.

St Joseph's Parish Church in Ushaw Moor, near Durham City and our Lady Queen of Martyrs, Newhouse, raised £6,000 to fund the trip.

Parish priest, Father Martin Morris, accepted the cheque, on behalf of the pilgrims, their carers and five people who will accompany them to Lourdes.

The visit is part of the annual Hexham and Newcastle Diocesan Pilgrimage which will take place from July 29 to August 3.

Fifty other pilgrims from both parishes will also be travelling to Lourdes.

Fundraising events started in February and included coffee mornings, sponsored cycle rides and the Deerness Fun Run. They culminated with a race night at Ushaw Moor Catholic Club