The Archbishop of York is in Jamaica for an 11-day tour as the country marks 50 years of independence from Britain.

Dr John Sentamu and his wife are in the country on the invitation of the Jamaica Tourist Board and the Ministry of Tourism.

During his visit, the Archbishop will preach at an ecumenical service in Montego Bay and a special service at the cathedral in Spanish Town.

He will also meet church ministers and leaders as he tours the country.

Regional Director of the Jamaica Tourist Board, Elizabeth Fox said of the visit: “2012 marks the start of a significant year in Jamaica’s history, with the 50th anniversary of independence.

"Therefore, when planning the official events that will take place throughout the year, the Jamaica Tourist Board considered there no better way of launching these celebrations by way of a visit from The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu.

“Jamaicans are deeply religious people and in fact, Jamaica has more churches per square mile than any other country in the world.

"We hope therefore that religious groups and Jamaican Diaspora in the UK will see this as an opportunity to go back and visit during the Archbishop’s visit.”