HUNDREDS of people took part in the annual Palm Sunday procession in Winchester this morning.

Revellers gathered at a what was a sun-soaked Winchester Castle, outside the Great Hall, shortly after 10am and followed a route down through the High Street, turning right at the Buttercross before making their way into the Cathedral.

The procession was accompanied by palms, hymns and 'Dermot' the donkey who joined those in attendance from Kelly’s Donkeys.

It included the Dean of Winchester, the Very Rev Catherine Ogle, the Reverend Canon Missioner Dr Tess Kuin Lawton, and Precentor and Sacrist the Reverend Canon Andy Trenier, among other cathedral and city dignitaries.

Elizabeth Haidar, who volunteers at the cathedral, joined in the procession with her two 11-year-old children James and Arabella.

She said: "I volunteer to do these activities as I'm committed to my Christian faith, and myself and the children absolutely love it. It was a glorious day, the singing was just sublime, the choir were like little angels.

Hampshire Chronicle: James and Arabella with 'Dermot' the donkey (Picture | Stuart Martin)James and Arabella with 'Dermot' the donkey (Picture | Stuart Martin)

"People were happy and jovial and it just lifts your spirits being surrounded by the warmth and history of the cathedral. With everyone joining in it felt like we were all part of a family. It was a beautiful day and it's very important for myself and James and Arabella to be part of the service and part of the Christian faith."

Palm Sunday marks the beginning of the Holy Week, and commemorates Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, who was welcomed by the people waving palm branches.

Later in the afternoon, a service will be held called, ‘The Way of the Cross - Vespers for Palm Sunday’, where music and readings will be heard in preparation for the Holy Week.