CHILDREN at St Benedict's Catholic Primary School have been celebrating the inauguration of the new Pope and are thrilled with his choice of name.

Much to the delight of the St Benedict's pupils, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger has taken the title of Pope Benedict XVI.

Fr Tony Slingo, of St Benedict's Church, in Orford, said: "The children are really proud that the new Pope has chosen their name.

"One young pupil said to me: 'We're glad that he is clever enough to choose such a good name as ours'.

"They watched the funeral of Pope John Paul II in school and were already familiar with the cardinal.

"So they were all very excited when it was announced that he had become the new Pope."

Head teacher Henryk Koltan said that the children were considering writing to the Pope.

They wanted congratulate him on his appointment and on his wise choice of title.

Children, teachers and visitors to St Benedict's church have been discussing the speculation surrounding the new Pope and his style of office.

Fr Slingo said: "There has been a lot of talk about his conservative approach.

"People have wondered how strict he will be.

"He was a strong figure behind the last Pope, now he has to balance two roles.

"I hope he will be a very strong father with a mother's arms. He has to be both tough and gentle."