A public execution is to be staged in the centre of Epsom on Friday.

But, given the ban on capital punishment in the UK, and the fact that it is Good Friday, you can rest assured that the person being 'crucified' will be someone playing Jesus Christ.

Churches from across the borough are coming together to stage a major religious procession culminating in a re-enactment of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The Procession of Witness is organised by Churches Together in Epsom and Churches Together in Ewell, two volunteer groups working for closer relationships among the local church communities.

Elizabeth Martin, secretary of Churches Together in Epsom, said the annual event has been running for a number of years - but has been quite low-key until now.

Reverend Sue Curtis of Christ Church, the show’s producer, said rehearsals started in January and the event will be more of a drama and less of a service this year.

She said: "The show will involve 15 costumed actors from different churches, eight children from St Martin’s and members of the Song Squad, the Christ Church junior choir."

"There will be some dialogue, monologue, symbolic action, solo singers and congregational hymns.

"Jesus Christ will be played by Craig Donovan, the husband of Rosemary Donovan, the vicar at Christ Church."

How the day will go:

  • Proceedings will begin at the clinic car park on Dullshot Road at 9.50am.
  • Jesus will stand trial at 10am before the procession heads along the High Street towards the Market Place.
  • The crucifixion and resurrection will take place outside the Wetherspoon pub from 10.30 - 10.45am.

Delays are expected along Epsom High Street between 10.15am and 10.30am and motorists are being advised to avoid travelling west along it during this time.