A new world order it may not be, but an old Whitby Order could soon be attracting pilgrims from around the globe.

Sister Judith, head of the Order of the Holy Paraclete at St Hilda's Priory, Sneaton Castle, Whitby, is threatening to change a habit of a lifetime by going into the tourist business.

She is masterminding a new initiative which has seen the conversion of the priory's former school, which closed last year, into accommodation for tourists and pilgrims.

And it's not a case of nuns on the run but on the Net.

Sister Judith is promoting the priory's new facilities, which can accommodate up to 100 people, on the Internet.

She is targeting tourist operators, universities, disadvantaged youngsters, schools and specialist groups to explore Whitby's rich maritime and ecclesiastical history.

The nun wants to turn Whitby into the Mecca of the North while encouraging more young people into the Order.

"I feel we can create a 'Pilgrimage to the North' experience working with a tour operator," said Sister Judith.

"This part of Britain has a great abundance of interest especially for pilgrims, historians and people seeking a Christian experience."

It is hoped the initiative will help meet the cost of the upkeep of the 180-year-old castle.

See COMMENT Spiritual appeal

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