Three bishops in the diocese of Blackburn will take to the stage as actors as they've been cast in a new play.

Rt Rev. Julian Henderson, the Bishop of Blackburn, Rt Rev. Philip North, Bishop of Burnley, and Rt Rev. Dr Jill Duff, Bishop of Lancaster, will be performing in 'The Mark Drama' at Blackburn Cathedral next month.

The play is a dramatisation of the Gospel of Mark, which follows the journey of Jesus and his disciples.

'The Mark Drama', created by Andrew Page, has been performed right across Europe and throughout the world.

Bishop Julian said: "It's always good to be able to impart the Gospel in new and different ways and this is an exciting and innovative production. As amateur actors we will be trusting wholly in God to shine the light of His message through us!

"I hope as many people as possible will take the opportunity to attend and - importantly - to bring a friend with them who may not have heard the Gospel message before."

Bishop Philip commented: "It's hard to think of a better way of entering into the scriptures than acting it out. I'm looking forward to being part of this team who will lift this wonderful Gospel off the page and, I pray, show something of the grace and power of Jesus."

Bishop Jill said: "I came to faith by reading the Bible and I am excited to be involved in this drama that brings the life of Jesus literally to life. My hope is that by being involved in The Mark Drama it will be Jesus who is in the spotlight."

Members of the Bishop's Leadership Team including Very Rev Peter Howell-Jones, Dean of Blackburn will also be taking part in the performance.