Pope | Central - ITV News

1:32 pm, Mon 11 Feb 2013 New Pope appointed National

Miliband: Pope's resignation decision 'a brave one'

Many people will remember his historic visit to the UK in 2010 - which was a very special moment for many, especially Catholics, across the country.

His decision to stand down is a brave one and we know he will not have reached it lightly.

The choice of a successor is clearly an important one for the Catholic Church.

Our thoughts are with those who must make such a critical decision on behalf of millions around the world.

– Labour leader Ed Miliband

12:45 pm, Mon 11 Feb 2013 New Pope appointed National

Pope will honour public engagements until resignation

Pope Benedict will honour his official commitments and public engagements until February 28, the date of his resignation, according to Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi.

Pope's resignation was his own 'personal decision'

Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi said the Pope's resignation was his own "personal decision" without any outside pressure.

12:22 pm, Mon 11 Feb 2013 New Pope appointed

'We've seen changes in the Pope' says Leicester charity

A charity that fulfils dreams for ill children says it's shocked by the Pope's resignation, after sending nine children to see him in Italy.

The visits were organised by Wishes 4 Kids, a Leicester based charity that has brought to life dreams come true for hundreds of local youngsters.

The charity was set up by Russell Brickett.

"Total surprise. We have taken nine children for the audience with Pope Benedict, so we have seen those slight changes occur in him. But nonetheless, it is still such a great surprise," said Russell.

Over the years, children have been taken to places like Disneyland Paris and rubbed shoulders with their favourite pop stars and sporting heroes.