A torrential downpour did not stop a community gathering outside for an annual re-enactment of the crucifixion.

The congregation gathered on the green in The Avenue, Moulsecoomb, Brighton, for the traditional Good Friday event clutching soggy hymn sheets, with only umbrellas to protect them from the elements.

Representatives from churches including St Andrew's, in Hillside, Mouslecoomb and the Salvation Army turned out for the service.

Matthew Burnham took his place on the cross to play Jesus.

At noon he carried the cross on his back from St Andrew's Church to the tree on the green where the crucifixion story was acted out.

Father John Wall, who led the service, said: “I think it is the soggiest Good Friday that we have had but well done for turning out in what are pretty horrible conditions.

“Because it's so soggy, we cannot actually use the electrical equipment to run the keyboard so I hope you are all going to be noisy.”