A NUN'S world-wide pilgrimage this week brought her to Durham Cathedral.

And even the well-travelled Sister Ruth Augustus, whose mission of prayer has taken her to more than 200 countries, seemed awestruck as she came in sight of one of the world's most imposing churches.

Accompanied by her constant companion - a three foot tall statuette of the Virgin Mary - Sister Ruth is currently touring Britain in her personal campaign to bring people back to prayer.

As she approached the Palace Green in front of the Cathedral and clutching the elaborately decorated statue, Sister Ruth declared "It feels very special here.''

A member of an Irish Order in Cork, 62-year-old Sister Ruth began her personal pilgrimage 14 years ago. Since that time she has travelled thousands of miles. She said her journey had not always been an easy one and on at least two occasions her life had been threatened.

It was the richest countries she said which were full of people who had turned away from God.

And it is her belief that if these people continue to live they way they do then they will ultimately face a nuclear holocaust which will wipe everyone out.

With 30 countries left still to visit before she has completed her crusade she urged: "Prayer is the only way to turn this around and stop a disaster. I tell people to pray every day, that is the reason for my travels.''

During her stay in the North-East Sister Ruth will visit Newcastle, Darlington and Sunderland.