THE churches of Okehampton joined together for the town?s traditional Good Friday service and parade at a packed St James? Church in Okehampton.
The Mayor, Cllr Christine Marsh, and Mayoress, Cllr Frances Luxton and several town councillors, were in attendance.
The Rev Mike Davies (Inspiration Church) opened the service by commenting on how pleasing it was to see a church building packed to capacity with many people having to stand.
The Rev Stephen Cook (All Saints) provided the Good Friday sermon and offered a challenging word to all present. The Rev Derek Hayward (Okehampton Baptist) and Pastor David Waters (New Life) also assisted in the service. Mrs Norma Hynes (St Boniface Roman Catholic) read from the bible.
Following the service John Down carried a cross from St. James? to Red Lion Yard where a short service was conducted by the Rev Philip Wagstaff (Fairplace).
For many decades Christians in the Okehampton area have gathered at Moorgate in the early hours of Easter Sunday to walk to the top of Yes Tor.
This year was no exception with another well-attended Sunrise Service.
The Mayor, Cllr Marsh, met the assembled people at 4.45am at the Okehampton Army Camp.
The Mayor then walked with about 50 others to the top of Yes Tor, in the dark, to witness the Easter sunrise.
This year the weather conditions were excellent and Okehampton?s Dartmoor Rescue Group had members in attendance in case of any emergency.
The Rev Mark Thomas (All Saints) provided the early morning sermon, with the service, hymns, and event being led by the Rev Chris Bourne (Inspiration Church).
Also in attendance for the very early morning service were fellow Okehampton church ministers: Philip Wagstaff, Mike Davies, and Simon Bourne.