TWENTY-four people from Bromley and Croydon have set out on a healing mission.

Ben Cahill, 47, of Lennard Road, Penge led the team from charity Anerley Across to see the world-renowned `miracle of Lourdes' in France. And he is hoping some of the 11 wheelchair-bound people making the pilgrimage this year will be cured. The former landlord at the Thicket pub set up Anerley Across 13 years ago after he volunteered as a helper on another charity's trip. He said: "I went as a helper in 1983, and when I got back I decided to set up a group myself. I wanted to do more to help people suffering with mental and physical handicaps."

It costs £12,000 to take teams out each year and Anerley Across raises funds via various charity events.

Club Secretary and volunteer nurse for this year's trip, Christina Conlen said: "It's an opportunity to give families a break and an ideal place for these people -- some terminally ill -- to have a holiday." Although the club has yet to see members healed, Christina said they were still hopeful. She said: "It would be lovely to see someone healed. We are not specifically a Catholic charity, but we do take part in some of the religious events at Lourdes, particularly the blessing of the sick. People go into this big pool, where Bernadette appeared to Mary.

"When you come out you are dry, that's the miracle of Lourdes. It's unbelievable, and unless you are there you wouldn't believe it."

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