THE SUNDAY TELEGRAPH: Britain's historic papal visit has come to an end as Benedict XVI gave his final wave from the steps of his aeroplane.
The Pontiff took off from Birmingham Airport on a windy Sunday evening after thanking the nation for its hospitality.
In speeches to a small crowd of dignitaries on the airport's apron, both he and Prime Minister David Cameron pledged to strengthen relationships between Britain and the Vatican.
The hustle and bustle of the airport continued throughout the day, with holidaymakers oblivious to frantic behind-the-scenes preparations for the Pope's departure.
Hours before his arrival, police and officials swarmed round the Alitalia plane, checking every detail, while officials practised "walk-throughs" on a specially-laid cross-shaped red carpet. >>> | Sunday, September 19, 2010
