Britons’ blessing checklist

People hoping to attend a Mass blessing during the Pope’s visit next month in London have been given an exhaustive list of what they can and cannot bring.

Among the items permitted for the London and Birmingham gatherings are sunblock, banners, flags, torches, cushions and small folding chairs.

But not welcome are alcohol, gazebos, canopies, barbecues, animals or candles, which are deemed “things that... could pose a threat to yourself or others”.

The instructions – on the official papal visit website – even detail that hampers and cool boxes should “not exceed 51cm x 33cm x 20cm”.

They advise people to bring “provision for all weather conditions”, “medication as needed for the duration of your time away from home” as well as emergency contact numbers.

Also needed is wet weather gear (rainwear) and “provision for sunny conditions (hats/caps, clothes to cover-up, sun cream)”.