A POPULAR church showcased its cosmopolitan spirit on Sunday with a special service.

Our Lady of Dolours Church in Bury New Road, Kersal, which counts many people from Prestwich and Whitefield among its congregation, held an international harvest Mass to celebrate the diversity of worshippers.

The church proudly displayed flags of the scores of nations representing the roots of parishioners.

During the service, music originating from Nigeria, Poland, Zimbabwe, Ireland and the Philippines was played and guests came in their national robes.

The priest, Father Peter Conniffe, wore a multi-coloured robe made in Jamaica.

Father Paul Addison, from the church, said: "Prayers expressed thanks for the fruits of the earth, care for fair distribution of wealth and progress and sadness for pilgrims killed in Mecca and people displaced across the world.

"Bible readings were in many different languages. The whole celebration was joyful and uplifting."