A LARGE number of people were drawn to Sclerder Abbey near Looe, where the monastery's new religious community opened its doors to the public for a busy day of tours and talks.

Up until now, nuns living at the Abbey in Talland Bay have been part of enclosed orders, strictly separated from the outside world - although in recent times the Carmelite Sisters had welcomed visitors to the gardens for annual events such as dog shows.

But the Chemin Neuf community, who have been resident since September of last year, plan to offer spiritual courses and retreats at Sclerder.

Sister Jacqueline Coutellier said: 'This is a wonderful place for families to share time, to relax, and to be united.'

Sister Jacqueline added: 'We were really pleased that representatives of several churches were there at the open day, as our mission is ecumenical.'

The community members were overjoyed to be able to welcome around 350 people during the day, said Desiree Kim Lin of the Chemin Neuf.

'There were guided tours all day, non-stop, except for lunch – it was a really social time,' she said.

'It was a wonderful, successful day.'