Faithful watch for Sistine smoke

The Sistine Chapel in Rome was the focus of attention today as cardinals meet to elect a new pope.

Last night saw the first sign that the conclave had failed to reach its decision emerged when black smoke appeared from the chapel's chimney. The smoke appeared again today.

Black smoke means that no decision has been made while white smoke accompanied by a peal of bells will herald the news that the 265th pope has been chosen.

However, yesterday evening the 40,000-strong crowd waiting in St Peter's Square applauded as the smoke plume appeared to be grey.

The unclear colour caused one Italian news agency to announce that a new pontiff had been elected. But after a few seconds the smoke turned black. A second smoke signal was expected at 11 o'clock this morning.

Another four rounds of voting will take place but the 115 cardinals are expected to take at least three days to choose John Paul II's successor.