A PENSIONER who is organising a trip to Lourdes in the memory of the Pope says the trip is almost fully booked.

As previously reported in the Adver, Laura Gibson, 86, was blessed by the Pope in 1983 and has been to Lourdes on nearly 40 occasions.

Mrs Gibson, who attends the Holy Rood Church in Groundwell Road, is organising the pilgrimage in August.

She said: "We have sold 32 tickets and there are only 45 seats on the coach.

"I can't believe how quickly they have gone. If we get many more I will have to book a bigger coach." Mrs Gibson says the trip has become the talk of her church but it is not just Swindon people who have shown an interest.

"People are calling me all the time," she said.

Despite having organised 38 trips to Lourdes and five to Rome in the past, Mrs Gibson did not intend to go this year until the Pope passed away.

"People who know me are surprised I am doing this but it's going to be a special trip. I feel like I have been chosen to do it."

"If anyone is interested in coming they must not hesitate to get in touch," she said.

Anyone who would like to join Mrs Gibson in Lourdes from August 13-19 should call her on 01793 487821. Tickets cost £355.