A dazzling gold and silver processional cross, bought as a thank you from a congregation member, has been dedicated to one of the region's most historic churches by the Archbishop of York.

The Archbishop of York David Hope mingled with church-goers from across the Cartmel Peninsular when he visited Cartmel Priory on Sunday.

Among the hundreds of worshipers who turned out to attend two services at the Priory and to meet the Archbishop was Grange-over-Sands guesthouse owner Michael Thorburn.

Mr Thorburn, who has a long-standing attachment to the Priory and has been serving at the alter since he was 17, had long-harboured a desire to buy a processional cross to replace the existing wooden one.

For his 60th birthday, the married father of two decided to ask for contributions instead of presents and put the money towards the cost of a cross.

Team Vicar at Cartmel Father Robert Bailey said the event had been a memorable day in the life of the priory and an exciting occasion for the village of Cartmel.

Following the morning service more than 100 people enjoyed a buffet lunch provided by local residents and attended by the Archbishop.