Business leaders in Coventry say the Papal visit to the city
will bring huge economic benefits.
It has been confirmed that Pope Benedict XVI will visit Coventry
in September as part of a four day trip to the UK at the invitation
of the Queen.
The last time a Pope came to the city in 1982 it attracted more
than 300,000 people and a similar number could head for Coventry
again.
Louise Bennett, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire
Chamber of Commerce, said businesses should be prepared for an
influx of people and potential customers.
She said: "This could have a huge knock-on effect economically
for the city and the region.
"With hundreds of thousands of people descending on Coventry
from across the country and Europe, we will have to be
prepared.
"It's very good news for Coventry and the wider region and
hotels, restaurants, shops and tourist attractions as well as a
range of other businesses could benefit from this visit.
"Not only will the visit itself bring an economic boost, it will
also put Coventry's name on an international stage and that is
something we can also benefit from.
"It's important that we all gear up for this well in
advance."