|TOP|The Diocese of Newcastle celebrated its 125th anniversary over the weekend with a packed schedule of events including worship and music.

Christians from across the diocese were joined by the Bishop of Newcastle, the Rt Rev Martin Wharton, in the daylong celebrations which included a picnic lunch as well as dance, drama and folk music.

Bishop Wharton said: "The Church of England has changed a great deal in 125 years.

“But it continues to be passionate about providing for the spiritual and physical needs of the people, and the wellbeing of all local communities.

|AD|"The diocese is actively involved in the education of children in a wide range of schools, we are working alongside other Christians in the care of asylum seekers in our city and we play a large part in sustaining community life in both urban and rural areas."

The events on Saturday also celebrated the centenary of the Diocese of Newcastle’s Readers’ ministry as part of wider celebrations taking place throughout the year in honour of those who have trained to preach and teach in Anglican churches.

The Bishop of Newcastle opened a special exhibition on spirituality as part of the celebrations which included sculptures from students at Newcastle College on the theme of spiritual journeys.

The exhibition is supported by the Duchess of Northumberland and the Alnwick Garden where the events took place.

The Diocese of Newcastle stretches all the way from the north bank of the Tyne to Berwick and was formed out of the much larger Diocese of Durham. It officially came into being on St James’ Day, 25 July 1882.