The story of the crucifixion was staged in a dramatic re-enactment at Cromer Parish Church.

Eastern Daily Press: Easter is celebrated by the people of Cromer with a staging of the Crucifixion at Cromer Church where Jonny Bell represented Jesus.PHOTO BY SIMON FINLAYEaster is celebrated by the people of Cromer with a staging of the Crucifixion at Cromer Church where Jonny Bell represented Jesus.PHOTO BY SIMON FINLAY (Image: ARCHANT NORFOLK)

The church provided a striking backdrop to a series of moving scenes depicting the trial and death of Jesus.

The performance saw Jesus, played by youth minister Jonny Bell, staggering bloodied from the church before being tied to the cross.

His discarded clothing was torn up by Roman soldiers who let the dying Christ drink from a sponge.

Passages from the Bible describing the events of the crucifixion were read out as the dramatisation unfolded.

Eastern Daily Press: Easter is celebrated by the people of Cromer with a staging of the Crucifixion at Cromer Church where Jonny Bell represented Jesus.PHOTO BY SIMON FINLAYEaster is celebrated by the people of Cromer with a staging of the Crucifixion at Cromer Church where Jonny Bell represented Jesus.PHOTO BY SIMON FINLAY (Image: ARCHANT NORFOLK)

A large crowd gathered to watch the Passion Play, Called Cromer at the Cross, which was interspersed with hymns and prayers.

Mr Bell, who was playing Jesus for the third time, said: 'It is a great opportunity to do something outside the church in the community giving people the chance to see and experience the crucifixion story.

He added: 'It is quite a privilege to play Jesus, quite a pressurised role and can be hard to do as a Christian.'

Following the play people were served hot cross buns and hot drinks and given time for reflection and prayer in the church.

Vicar James Porter said: 'This is an opportunity to recreate the events of Good Friday is a very visible way.

'Many people may have forgotten the story and we wanted to take it out of the church and make it more accessible.'