Young Catholics give Pope rock star welcome

Pope Benedict XVI was treated to a rock star welcome as he greeted young Catholics earlier.

The piazza outside Westminster Cathedral was packed with up to 2,500 youngsters from dioceses in England, Wales and Scotland.

They cheered and whistled enthusiastically as the Pope appeared on the steps after giving Mass.

There was a sea of cameras and mobile phones directed towards the Pontiff, with some people climbing lampposts or sitting on shoulders to get a better view.

Flags were waved and one banner read: "We love our German shepherd."

The Pope was greeted by Paschal Uche, 21, a student at Nottingham University, who told him: "For many of us before today you were a face on television or a picture in a church.

"But today we behold you face to face, and on behalf of the Catholic youth of this great nation I would like to express my profound and heartfelt gratitude for your visit."

The Pope was cheered as he said: "Thank you for your warm welcome."

He urged followers to "look into your hearts each day to find the source of all true love".

After the speech, a chant went up of: "We are the faithful!"