Lord Patten of Barnes, the Prime Minister’s personal representative for the state visit of Pope Benedict XVI, visited Birmingham last week to view preparations for the papal Mass and the beatification of Cardinal Newman at Cofton Park.
Lord Patten, the last governor of Hong Kong, was accompanied by Councillor Alan Rudge, and senior officials from the City of Birmingham, West Midlands Police and other agencies.
Mr Rudge, tasked with overseeing the City Council’s role during the papal visit, said: "The visit is a momentous occasion for the City of Birmingham and for the West Midlands. We have a world-class reputation for hosting events and will be delighted to welcome our friends from across the region, the country and the world."
