Crowds gathered in Preston city centre during Good Friday to witness a live passion play.

Starting in Winckley Square the story of Jesus’ death and resurrection made its way through the city – performed by a team of dedicated volunteers.

Jesus – played by actor Neil Procter from Penwortham – carried the cross up Fishergate with traffic stopped for the event.

The final scenes took place in the Flag Market in-front of the Harris Museum and Art Gallery as Christ is nailed to the cross – with hundreds of people watching on.

Produced and narrated by Brenda Dell, who began planning the production in November, she chose to make it have a contemporary theme.

It featured The Apostles wearing hoodies, Mary Magdalene on a scooter and the Vicar of Preston Father Timothy Lipscomb made a turn as a blind beggar who had his sight restored.

“Today showed the absolute dedication of the whole team, maintained even in foul weather. The text originally created for Hornchurch Passion, and since adapted, engaged them from the outset. Enacting it involved so much discussion and the result was a powerful interpretation by a cast committed to each other and unified in mind.

“With believers and non-believers, a Buddhist Director and Jesus, they were one in recognising the importance of what Jesus said about how to live. The play was originally entitled A Life Worth Knowing.

“There was so much warmth, friendship and joy in the many rehearsals that as producer I’m overwhelmed by their commitment.

“A massive thank you to Anthea Carpenter Procter who teased out the best from each member of the cast, and to Neil Procter who gave such a strong and emotional performance as Jesus.

“We would have loved a sunny day and more people but feedback is highly appreciative and the Preston Passion Play has made an impact on Preston.”

Preston has a strong connection with the passion story, having being chosen in 2012 to perform a live passion play by the BBC as part of the Guild year celebrations.

View a full set of images from the Preston Passion.

Did you see the performance? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below