Benedictine monks are to move out of historic Downside Abbey as they search for a new home for the community.

The last eight monks will lodge at Buckfast Abbey in Devon (pictured) while they attempt to reach a permanent decision about their future.

Downside School, an independent Catholic school adjacent to the abbey in Somerset, will continue under lay administration.

The monks voted to leave their abbey in Stratton-on-the-Fosse a year ago but easing of lockdown restrictions have only just made it possible.