CHRISTIANS from different denominations came together to bear witness at the start of the biggest weekend in the Church year.

In Malton, Churches Together in Southern Ryedale (CTSR) gathered in the sunshine at St Michael's Church.

The open-air service included music from Malton's White Star Band and communal singing.

The event attracted more than 200 people in Malton town centre.

This year it was organised by St Peter's Church, Norton, on behalf of CTSR.

The Rev Peter Clarke, chairman of CTSR, welcomed those who gathered in Market Place, Malton, outside St Michael's Church -some of whom had walked from their churches.

Scenes from the crucifixion were enacted and a talk was given by the Rev Rachel Hirst, vicar of St Peter's, while prayers were led by the Rev Geoff Floyd, minister at the Saville Street Methodist Churc and the service ended with a blessing from Father Tim Bywater of St Leonard & St Mary's RC Church, Malton.

Other churches represented were St Mary Priory, Old Malton, Elim Ryedale, Bethel Methodist and Trinity Methodist.

Meanwhile, in York yesterday evening the annual Walk of Witness started at the fountain on Parliament Street and saw a procession make its way through the city bearing the cross and stopping at various locations for reflection.

The walk, which finished at York Minster, was led by Revd Stephen Burgess, chair of the York and Hull Methodist District.

The York Churches Together service was held at the Minster after the procession.