First view of altar for Papal Mass

This is the first image of the altar being constructed in Birmingham's Cofton Park in preparation for the beatification of Cardinal John Henry Newman by the Pope.

With a little over two weeks to go until the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI touches down in the UK, images were released by the Catholic Communications Network.

The theme for the visit is "Heart speaks unto Heart" with the message to be displayed on the altar in the centre of the park.

Parts of the park closed on Thursday as construction work began. Access will be limited until the Papal Mass on September 19.

Work began to lay new pathways last week and construction of the stage and altar started this week. This is where Mass will be said and where VIPs and choirs will sit.

Workers will clear space for 65,000 pilgrims. Although all Pilgrim passes given to the Birmingham Archdiocese for the Mass were allocated, some have been returned.

Peter Jennings of the Archdiocese, who has described security measures as "draconian" said passes are now being reallocated.

The Archdiocese already had the largest share of tickets. It was given 14,000 out of a total 65,000, with a further 5,000 made available from undersubscribed areas.

Mr Jennings said: "This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, but sadly some of the older pilgrims feel they aren't up to the event, which will see people brought to the park in the early hours of the morning. There is no seating for the pilgrims and no cover and as the Mass is going to be televised some people have been in contact to say it is more practical for them to stay at home.

"We are not in a position to give a figure on the number of people who have returned passes but we are reallocating them now."

The arrival of pilgrims will be managed by coach and timed according to an agreed programme, with first pilgrims to arrive at 2am. Ten thousand letters have been distributed to residents around the park to tell them of arrangements, with a list of road closures expected to be announced.

Birmingham City Council has an inquiry line on 0121 6751164.