The final moments of Christ’s life will be played out on Good Friday as part of a quarter century old-tradition.

Churches of all denominations from across Croydon will take part in the Walk of Witness, including a re-enactment of the crucifixion, with Eastenders star Chris Reilly cast as Jesus of Nazareth.

Canon Colin Boswell, the Vicar of Croydon, will lead the service while professional oboe player Hilary Dennis will lead the music, joined by the choir from St Mildred’s church, Addiscombe.

Toni Suffolk, one of the organisers, said: “The event is a witness to people in Croydon of the love Jesus has for all of is.

“Of course there are people in Croydon who know of Jesus and about God but there are also people and children who simply do not know what Easter is about.

“This is an event to put a part of the Christian year on the High Street. To raise awareness of what Good Friday means.”

About 30 churches are involved in the event, with between 600 and 800 people involved in the three processions through the town.

On Friday the crucifixion will be re-enacted outside Alms Houses, top of Crown Hill, Croydon High Street, at 11am.

The event will include the singing of the Allegri Miserere, originally written to be only performed in the Sistine Chapel, Rome.

The three processions will go from The United Reformed Church, Addiscombe Grove, the corner of Nottingham Road and Brighton Road and St. Michael’s Church in Poplar Walk beginning simultaneously at 10.30am.

The walk from St Michael’s will include Mr Reilly, Andy Young in Eastenders, dragging his cross.