THOUSANDS of Jehovah's Witnesses gathered for a three-day annual convention at a football stadium.

The event at Brighton and Hove Albion's Amex Stadium saw Witnesses from Sussex, Surrey, south London, Kent and Hampshire baptised in a giant pool.

Around 11,000 people flocked to the stadium for the event, which was one of 20 throughout the UK and hundreds worldwide.

This year's convention - themed 'Imitate Jesus' - featured dozens of talks, practical demonstrations and Bible re-enactments.

Residents living near the stadium were canvassed by Witnesses on their doorsteps shortly before the convention, which ran from Friday to Sunday.

Brighton's 105 congregations also distributed printed invitations welcoming people to the meeting in the weeks running up to the event.

Organiser John Elms said: "As Christians, a core belief of Jehovah's Witnesses is that Jesus lived his life as a model for us to follow. The convention program examined Jesus' life as outlined in the Bible, and emphasised how all - regardless of their background, lifestyle or religion - can benefit in practical ways from his example and teachings.

"The Witnesses love being at the Amex, with its great facilities, and are glad to be back again this year, having enjoyed a special international convention at Twickenham RFG last year with over 60,000 in attendance."

The convention also featured members being baptised in a pool on the Amex's pitch.