Pupils from two schools took part in a Christian pilgrimage as it passed through Downham Market.

Eastern Daily Press: Pilgrims on their way to Walsingham, were joined by pupils from the Ten Mile Bank Academy. Picture: Ian BurtPilgrims on their way to Walsingham, were joined by pupils from the Ten Mile Bank Academy. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2018)

The route of the Ely leg of the Student Cross Pilgrimage goes through the west Norfolk town as they make their way to Walsingham.

For the first time pupils from Ten Mile Bank Riverside Academy and Hilgay Riverside Academy were able to join them for a short section.

During their walk pupils talked to those taking part to learn more about the pilgrims and why they take part in the 62 mile pilgrimage.

A group of 10 pupils were also able to have a go at carrying the seven foot cross which is carried during the three-day journey.

Eastern Daily Press: Pilgrims on their way to Walsingham, were joined by pupils from the Ten Mile Bank Academy. Picture: Ian BurtPilgrims on their way to Walsingham, were joined by pupils from the Ten Mile Bank Academy. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2018)

Ten Mile Bank headteacher Sarah Turner said: 'It gave the children an opportunity to see what modern day pilgrims do and who they are.

'It was an absolutely wonderful afternoon and the children got so much out of it and they were all so engaged.'

Eastern Daily Press: Pilgrims on their way to Walsingham, were joined by pupils from the Ten Mile Bank Academy. Picture: Ian BurtPilgrims on their way to Walsingham, were joined by pupils from the Ten Mile Bank Academy. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2018)

Eastern Daily Press: Pilgrims on their way to Walsingham, were joined by pupils from the Ten Mile Bank Academy. Picture: Ian BurtPilgrims on their way to Walsingham, were joined by pupils from the Ten Mile Bank Academy. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2018)

Eastern Daily Press: Pilgrims on their way to Walsingham, were joined by pupils from the Ten Mile Bank Academy. Picture: Ian BurtPilgrims on their way to Walsingham, were joined by pupils from the Ten Mile Bank Academy. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2018)