Cofton Park prepares for the Pope

Parts of Birmingham's Cofton Park were closed today as construction work began in preparation for the visit of Pope Benedict XVI.

Access to the park will now be limited until the Papal Mass on September 29.

Building work today included the laying out of new pathways and next week will see the construction of the stage where the Pope will say Mass and areas for VIPs and singers.

A total of 10,000 letters have been distributed to residents around Cofton Park to inform them of the arrangements.

Sarah Kirby, spokeswoman for Birmingham City Council said: "The work is starting today around the car park area.