A VILLAGE has marked a key event in the build-up to Easter.

The 35th annual Palm Sunday procession in Silchester took place over the weekend with a route from the village hall to the St Mary the Virgin Church.

Along the route pauses were made for readings, prayers and songs at a number of stations.

The Silchester procession was led this year by Bobby the donkey and by the Venerable Richard Brand, the Archdeacon of Winchester, who celebrated the service and preached at the church after walkers had warmed themselves up with coffee and hot cross buns at the end of the walk.

Palm Sunday marks Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, in the lead-up to Good Friday and Easter Sunday.