The Associazione Europea delle Vie Francigene General Assembly has given unanimous approval to the Via Francigena starting in Southwark.

The proposal to largely follow the line of the Pilgrims’ Way, described as the Francigena Britannica, was proposed by the Confraternity of Pilgrims to Rome.

A starting stone stands outside Canterbury Cathedral but now many more Rome-bound walkers are likely to be seen along the Pilgrims’ Way from London.

The decision makes official a recent trend inspired by those walking to Rome from the capital centuries ago.

More walkers could contribute to the growing pilgrim economy which benefits Southwark, Dartford and many historic villages.

Over 130 participants from the UK, France, Italy and Switzerland – the countries crossed by the Via Francigena – took part in the General Assembly which convened at Monte Sant’ Angelo in Italy.