Stepping out to remember saint
PEOPLE INVITED TO JOIN COUNTRYSIDE PILGRIMAGE
are being invited to join together for a “pilgrimage” between two communities in honour of a Leicestershire saint.
On Wednesday, June 1, a guide group will officially open the route, setting off from Wistow village on a four-mile countryside walk to Wigston, following the historical route of the martyred Prince Wistan.
It follows the route dedicated to the saint and named after him. It is classed as “easy to medium”, so families looking for something to do outdoors, for free, can turn up and do the walk at any time during the day.
A map and way-finder posts will be along the route too.
Inspired by the BBC2 programme Pilgrimage, where celebrities of differing faiths and beliefs embark on a journey of religious and spiritual awakening in recognition of the life and legacy of an ancient saint, this walk will be following in the footsteps of pilgrims and hearing the legend of the county’s very own saint.
Harborough District Council and Oadby and Wigston Borough Council are teaming up with local churches to organise the event, at a time when making connections around meaning and value are more important than ever. Councillor Phil
King, leader of Harborough District Council, said: “Whatever your beliefs, all are welcome to join this free half-day walk across beautiful, rural countryside from Wistow, with a rewarding sense of achievement at its end in Wigston.”
Coun John Boyce, leader at Oadby and Wigston Borough Council, said: “This is a great opportunity to get out and explore the area, reaping the health benefits of a four-mile stroll while also learning the history of the pilgrimage.
“It’s free to take part and promises to be a hugely enjoyable community day so please spread the word and get involved.”
The Rev Matthew Gough said: “St Wistan’s Pilgrimage is a medieval route which we relaunched in 2018 on his day of commemoration, June 1. Due to lockdown, this will be the first time that we can walk again in larger numbers.
“The popularity of pilgrimage has taken off as it provides a sense of connectedness to the environment, history, community, and spirituality.
“Prince Wistan of Mercia is a fascinating Leicestershire Saint martyred for his religious convictions and royal connection. Whether you like walks in beautiful South Leicestershire countryside, Anglo-Saxon history or a space to pause with intention, you are welcome to either join the led pilgrimage, or follow the waymarkers throughout the day.”
Legend recounts human hairs growing through the grass and beams of light seen on June 1, when Prince Wistan, who was set to become king, was murdered in 849, by his jealous cousin. The walk folPEOPLE lows and respects the historical route the body of the martyr was taken.
The village of Wistow takes its name from the shortened Wistanstowe, meaning holy place of Wistan, and features St Wistan’s Church, built on the site where the prince was murdered.
At 9.15am on June 1, the chairman of Harborough District Council will welcome walkers and start the walk, which will offer space for calming conversation, and a chance to hear the history from a guide at points of reflection.
The walk concludes at the civic monument on Bell Street, Wigston.
It is of moderate mixed terrain over fields, paths, canal towpath and pavement and requires a general fitness level. Toilet and refreshment facilities will be at Wistow Rural Centre and in Wigston town centre. Walkers are advised to plan ahead, and park at Wigston, and car share to the start or walk the return route making an eight-mile round trip.
There’s no need to book; just turn up and take part in the led walk, or follow the route in your own time.