Annual Croagh Patrick pilgrimage to draw thousands today

The annual pilgrimage at Croagh Patrick in Co Mayo is due to get underway later today.

The summit is the holy ground on which St Patrick is said to have rested, fasted and reflected during 44 days of lent in 441AD.

Thousands of pilgrims are expected to scale the 765 metre high peak many attempting to reach the summit bare-footed.

Pilgrims believe it is also where he went to banish all the snakes from Ireland.