A GROUP from Bishop's Castle have completed a 50 mile pilgrimage from Hyssington to Hereford Cathedral, commemorating their first pilgrimage 40 years ago. Back in 1976 pupils, teachers and parents from Bishop's Castle High School (now the Community College), and a number of parishioners got together to celebrate the 1300th anniversary of the Hereford Diocese by walking in pilgrimage to the cathedral. About 70 people took part at that time and since then many other pilgrimages have taken place over the years, led by Rev Ian Ball, who once taught at the school. Three generations of the Ball family as well as several of the original pilgrims completed this year’s 40th anniversary pilgrimage which began on April 13 and ended on April 17. The pilgrims set off from Hyssington, passing through all the benefices of Clun Deanery. Others walked all or parts of the way over five days, or helped with transport. They received blessings on their way at Bishop's Castle, Bucknell, Kingsland and Canon Pyon. The weather was good, and Shropshire and Herefordshire were looking their best. At the cathedral about 40 people, including supporters from present congregations were greeted by Bishop Richard and the Dean of Hereford. The West Door was specially opened for them, and Ian Ball, Rev Roy Davies and David Preshous led the way to the shrine of Thomas Cantilupe, accompanied by Janie Mitchell, former student, singing Bunyan's pilgrim hymn 'Who Would True Valour See'. Janet Preshous was one of those who took part and she said, “It was a very special occasion; one of joyful reunion and shared achievement, especially moving for those who had experienced the earlier pilgrimages. We are all heartened to feel the tradition is continuing.”