POPE John Paul II was today close to death as he remained gravely ill in his Vatican apartments.

The 84-year-old pontiff's poor health worsened further as he suffered from kidney failure and shortness of breath, the Vatican said.

The Vatican's health minister, Cardinal Javier Lozano, said the Pope "is about to die" and added that doctors had told him "there is no hope".

Millions of Catholics in the UK joined worldwide prayers for the ailing Pope.

Among the vigils being held in York was a candlelit one at the city's St Wilfrid's Church.

Canon Michael Ryan, from St Wilfrid's, said: "We kept the church open until 9pm last night and a steady stream of people were praying, even after nightfall. During the day, there were a lot of people coming in and out, praying and lighting candles. We had a candle lit in front of the altar with a picture of the Pope. That will remain today.

"There were people from other churches who came in and prayed. He has been Pope for such a long time he has become a Father as well as the man in the position. Having been to York, there's a certain affection for him as well."

Father Derek Turnham, spokesman for the Middlesbrough Roman Catholic Diocese, which includes York and North Yorkshire, said: "The mood around the diocese has been quietly prayerful. This evening the Bishop of Middlesbrough will be celebrating that in Middlesbrough Cathedral at 6.30pm when Mass will be offered for the Pope. Throughout the whole diocese this evening and tomorrow Masses will be offered for the Pope."


:: Story first published on Saturday, April 2, 2005