Pope Benedict clears way for Cardinal John Newman to become first English saint in 40 years

Cardinal Newman, the Anglican vicar who shocked Victorian Britain by converting to Roman Catholicism, is a step closer to becoming the first English saint for 40 years.

Pope Benedict XVI yesterday announced the beatification of John Henry Newman, meaning he will be given the title 'Blessed'.

It follows the recognition by the Vatican of the healing of an American man with a severe spinal condition as a miracle which came about as a result of praying to the Cardinal.

A second miracle is needed to recognise Newman as a saint.

Father Paul Chavasse, provost of the Birmingham Oratory, the church that Newman founded, said: 'The Holy Father's decision is one of great significance for the whole Church.'

Benedict XVI has been an admirer of Newman's writings since the 1940s, and is keen to make him a saint and also a theological Doctor of the Church.