WORSHIPPERS from across the dale took to the streets on Good Friday to reflect on the true meaning of Easter.
Large crosses were carried through Toft Hill and Etherley as well as Barnard Castle town centre to mark the crucifixion.
About 20 people took part in the Toft Hill procession which began near the Sportsman Inn and finished in Low Etherley, where refreshments were served.
The walk was a joint act of worship between St Cuthbert’s Church and Etherley Methodist Church which sees members of the congregations walk through the two villages. The group stopped at various points to say prayers including outside Toft Hill Primary School, the community centre and The Fields care home.
St Cuthbert’s Church warden Barrie Kirton said: “The walk is part of our holy week of worship in terms of knowing that it is a very special day when Jesus was crucified. It is a witness to Jesus dying and a new beginning.
“We try to get as many people from the village involved as we can. As Christians we want to tell people the story of Jesus and this is one the ways of doing that. It has grown in numbers over the years. It is nice to see people recognise that today is not just about chocolate eggs and a day off.”
Dozens of dale folk also walked through Barnard Castle on Good Friday led by parish vicar Revd Canon Alec Harding.
The story of Easter was then read out on Scar Top and hymns were sung before hot cross buns were served.
