People are being invited to join together for a ‘pilgrimage’ between two communities next month, in honour of a Leicestershire saint.
On June 1, a guided group will officially open the route and set off from the village of Wistow 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.
The route is classed as ‘easy to medium’, and a map and way-finder posts will be along the route too.
Inspired by the BBC2 television 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.
“This is a great opportunity to get out and explore the local area, reaping the health benefits of a four-mile stroll while also learning the history of the pilgrimage”, said Cllr John Boyce, leader at Oadby and Wigston Borough Council.
“It’s free to take part and promises to be a hugely enjoyable community day so please spread the word and get involved.”
Rev Matthew Gough, assistant Curate of Knighton’s St Mary Magdalen Church, will be among those leading the pilgrimage.
“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”, he explained.
“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.”
A ‘pilgrimage’ is a physical journey on foot to visit a place considered special or where a pivotal event in history took place, often with spiritual meaning or connection.
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 follows and respects the historical route the body of the martyr was taken.
The village of Wistow, in Harborough district, 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.
The walk is of moderate mixed terrain over fields, paths, canal towpath and pavement and requires a general fitness level. Walkers are advised to plan ahead, and park at Wigston, and car share to the start or walk the return route making an 8-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.
For more information, visit: https://visitharborough.com/event/st-wistans-way-pilgrim-walk-2022-wistow-to-wigston/
