Relics of St Bernadette of Lourdes make historic visit to St Mel's Cathedral

The relics of St Bernadette of Lourdes have started a historic tour of the Shannonside region, after arriving in St Mel's Cathedral in Longford this afternoon.

A special Mass is taking place at 7.30pm, followed by a candlelight procession.

They are going on a tour around Ireland and will visit Knock, Ballaghaderreen and Athlone in the coming weeks.

St Bernadette saw the Virgin Mary 18 times at the Grotto in Lourdes in 1858.

Fr James McKiernan, the administrator of Longford Parish, has been speaking to our reporter Eoghan Murphy about their arrival in St Mel's.