Hundreds of people gathered in Southampton’s Guildhall Square on Good Friday to watch a poignant re-enactment of the Easter Story.

Passion Retold is an adaption of the original biblical account written by local charity director Neil Maddock.

It was his third time performing the lead role as Jesus after he was first involved in the outdoor passion play in Winchester in 2008.

Neil started writing the script for the two-hour musical production in September last year. It features acts depicting the Last Supper, crucifixion and resurrection.

He said: “Southampton is a wonderful city to perform in and the council has been very supportive. We want to keep coming back for as long as they will let us.”

Paul Webber, 40 who is the leader of Southampton Christian Network helped put on the event said: “60 churches were involved in putting together this production. It has been about a year in the making and around 100 people were involved, all extremely committed, dedicated and hardworking. I am really pleased to see everyone coming together.”

Southampton City Council’s Event Manager, Craig Lintoff said: “The organisers of Passion Retold worked so hard in bringing this event from conception to fruition in Guildhall Square.

“Despite the inclement weather we were really impressed with the quality of the show and the number of people that braved the elements to watch it.

“Events of this nature are ideal for Guildhall Square and we are keen to work with event organisers on future events which help to attract more visitors to the cultural quarter.”