THE Pope may be seeking treatment for double vision after his encounter with an Otley priest in Rome.

The Rev Cornelius Finn, who is this year celebrating the 60th anniversary of his ordination, has just returned from Rome after an audience with Pope John Paul II.

And 84-year-old Father Finn, who enjoyed many years as the parish priest at Our Lady and All Saints Church, in Bridge Street, Otley, was accompanied on the trip by his twin brother, Dean - also a priest.

"I think for one priest to celebrate 60 years is very unusual. The Pope said it was the first time he had ever heard of twin brothers celebrating 60 years as priests.

"His exact words were he had 'never seen the like'," said Father Finn, of Farnley Lane.

Father Finn said both he and his brother had been thrilled to meet the Pope in Rome and had shared mass with him.

He first arrived in Otley in 1969 and was instrumental in the building of the town's St Joseph's School - Otley's only Roman Catholic school. He retired in 1987.

Before 1969, Father Finn had enjoyed spells in Bradford, Sheffield and Sandal, while his brother spent 35 years as a priest in Sierra Leone.

Father Finn has been involved with a variety of Otley-based organisations, including the town's Rotary Club. His other great passions are trout fishing and Rugby League.

He is an avid follower of the Wakefield Trinity club, fondly remembering the club's glory years. He originates from Hemsworth near Wakefield.

Friends and about 15 to 20 priests are expected to join Father Finn for a special celebration mass tomorrow at Our Lady and All Saints Church.

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