PRESTON town centre is set to be transformed into a multi-stage theatre as Christians prepare to re-enact the Easter story to mark the Year 2000.

Local churches have joined forces to draw up plans for the massive pageant, which will involve various locations across town being made over as giant stages.

The event is being modelled on the annual passion play staged in Oberammergau, in Germany, which attracts thousands of pilgrims every year.

And organisers behind Preston's version believe their production will attract similar crowds.

Winckley Square will host the Last Supper before the play - and its audience - move to the square in front of the Flax and Firkin for the High Priest's scene.

Then it's on to the covered market for the decision of Pontius Pilot to kill Jesus and King Herod, who is introduced to the crowd from the back of a lorry in Harris Street.

The re-enactment of the crucifixion is finally carried out on the Flag market, with a short service being held afterwards.

Moya Every, who is producing the event, said: "We held something similar in 1991 and that attracted thousands of people and I am sure this one will attract many more.

"All the churches in Preston are working on this.

"It is cross-denominational and most of the work will be done by members of the town's congregations."

Rehearsals for the mammoth project begin in September, with prisoners at Garth prison making the costumes as part of their community project work.

Moya added: "We are looking for people to help behind the scenes at the moment. The turn of the century is the ideal time for us to hold this celebration, because the year 2,000 has so many religious relevancies."

The Passion play is the second major Christian festival to be announced that will take place next year.

PNE is to host a massive Christian get together in the summer of next year.

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