HUNDREDS of people took to the streets of Gwent today to witness the story of Easter in live passion plays.

A graphic depiction of the crucifixion of Jesus was put on by members of The King's Church, Lower Dock Street, who led a procession through Newport city centre. Bemused shoppers and workers spilled out of stores to see what was happening, with many stopping to capture the scenes on their mobile phones.

More than 100 people followed the group to Natwest on the corner of High Street, where many stayed to sing hymns accompanied by a live band and choir.

Pastor Dave Edwards, of The Kings Church, said the church had been doing the open-air performances for at least 17 years, with the aim of reminding people of the true message of Easter.

He said: "The message is that the cross is a sign that God has come to express his love to us in our world and to recognise the fact that god comes with open arms to embrace us."

He said performers get a mixed reaction from the crowds every year: "People have said it's disgusting, other people are indifferent to it and some just don't understand it," he said.

A re-enactment of the Passion of Christ also took place in Brynmawr today.

Around 40 people gathered to watch the performance by members of the Brynmawr Family Church.

The crowd followed the actors including Stuart Wheatman, playing the role of Jesus, Mark Thwaites playing Pontius Pilate and Catherine Baxter narrating from the entrance of the Welfare Park to the picnic site by the Asda retail park.

The final scene of the crucifixion then took place outside the Market Hall Cinema where dancers also performed.

Mr Wheatman said: "This is a great way of getting the message across that God loves us all. I would like to thank everyone involved in the performance."