A small number of people started gathering on the approaches to the airport early this afternoon as this picture taken at 3.30 p.m. outside the ministerial lounge shows.

Elderly people also started gathering outside St Vincent de Paul Home as early as 3.15 p.m. Neocatechumenals are also gathering at several points from where the Pope will be passing to welcome him with large banners to the island of St Paul. A group of young people started singing religious hynms outside the airport at 4 p.m. Others can be seen sitting on top of bus shelters.

A number of houses along the routes to be followed by the Pope are displaying Papal flags and pictures.

Readers are invited to send pictures on mynews@timesofmalta.com .

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