'Sand, sea and spirit'

A new initiative is encouraging people to consider a visit to one of the most important places in British Christian history, Lindisfarne.

The 12-page Holy Island of Lindisfarne pilgrim guide offers prayers and practical information for visitors to the tidal island that was one the centres of Christianity in medieval Britain.

Instead of the bucket and spade option, holidaymakers are being invited to experience 'sand, sea and spirit' on the tiny island off north-eastern England instead.

The brochure has been put together by the Lindisfarne Scriptorium with support and involvement from The Open Gate and Clive Price Media.

The Open Gate is the group behind the Community of Aidan and Hilda, which runs island retreats.

Clive Price is a communications consultant specialising in faith tourism and promoting places with Celtic history and heritage.

"This amazingly wild and beautiful island has the ability to get under anybody’s skin," said Graham Booth, of The Open Gate and The Community of Aidan and Hilda.

"It’s a stunning place to reflect on life and its meaning."

Five thousand copies of the brochure will be distributed largely through the regional tourism networks across Northumbria.

A website is being constructed to offer further information to visitors and the pilgrim guide scheme will run initially for two years, with electronic updates.

"We’re inviting visitors to look at the island in a way that takes them beyond the tourist trail," said Mary Fleeson, of Lindisfarne Scriptorium.

"Come and experience the sand, sea and spirit of Lindisfarne. The island has been called a 'thin place' where heaven meets earth in a special way."