AFFETSIDE villagers turned out in force to support the Palm Sunday portrayal of Jesus entering Jerusalem on the donkey.

During Sunday’s event, palm branches and crosses were laid on the ground along the route of the procession, from the millennium green to Affetside Church where a Palm Sunday service was held. Other attractions included children’s crafts and activities.

Children and leaders of the group wore biblical costumes and were joined in the musical procession by villagers and members of the choir from Our Lady of Lourdes RC Primary School.

The pupils were accompanied by choirmistress and headteacher Donna Kiernan and her daughter, Charlotte, who is also a teacher.

In the role of Jesus was 11-year-old Jamie Greaves who rode Buttons the pony, led by its owner Michelle Sellars.

Other child actors were Josh Greaves who played Zacchaeus, Kendal Lucas who played Bartimaeus, together with Macy Booth, Sophie Booth, Maayan, Jessica Wild, Georgi Walmsley, Jacqueline Armstrong, Maya Malecka, Olivia Granger and Poppy Hainsworth, as disciples.

Other features of the day were a stunning church floral display by Jackie Walker and hand-designed blackboard mugs.

Carol Morris, who organised the Palm Sunday event along with Annette Lucas, said: “We had a fantastic turnout from villagers and other people who wanted to join the procession.

The event was very well supported and I’d like to say thanks to all, especially helpers from the village.”