THE Cathedral Green was transformed into a sea of colour at the weekend, as thousands gathered to celebrate the 1,100th anniversary of the Diocese of Exeter.

More than 5,000 Christians congregated in the sunshine outside Exeter Cathedral to welcome the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr Rowan Williams, to the city.

Christians of all denominations gathered for the open-air Eucharist service at 11.30am and at 3pm he spoke to clergy and took questions in the cathedral. The Bishop of Exeter, the Rt Rev Michael Langrish, said “It’s been a wonderful celebration. It has exceeded all my expectations. The music was stunning and the drama profound. To see so many people crowded onto Cathedral Green is just heart-warming.”

The archbishop and senior clergy looked magnificent, with the sun glinting off the fine gold thread and jewels that adorned their ecclesiastical vestments, as they presented the bread and wine communion service to everyone waiting.

A puppet drama created by Chris Speyer, Alan Boxer and Anthony Richards illustrated three key influences on the development of the diocese.

Mary Richards and Paul Rawlings from the Kentisbeare amateur dramatics society were puppeteers for the large puppet of Richard Hooker, inside was Pete Elliott. He said: “It’s a pretty warm day to be in there but the costume is not too heavy.”

Organiser and Cannon Missioner, Mark Rylands, said: “The weather has been great, the music was inspiring and the puppets gave it a visual element that told the story from 909 to today. The archbishop always says the cathedral is a happy place, it has a big smile and welcomes you.”

The archbishop arrived in Exeter on Friday and travelled to Crediton, home of Devon’s first bishop in 909.

On Friday evening he was interviewed by young people during a free concert in Exeter Cathedral which attracted more than 1,000 youngsters.

Tony Le Riche, 56, clerk to the Chapter, often guides visitors up the 117 steps, 110ft to the top of the cathedral. He said: “It’s an excellent turn-out, it has attracted so many people. It’s the third time the archbishop has been here, he likes Exeter.”

People of all ages, came from near and far to see the event.

Cassie Theelke, from Melbourne, Australia, was in the city visiting her grandmother, Rose Tabraham, 72, a member of Dartington parish. Cassie, 26, said: “I attend an Anglican church and today has been just fantastic. I liked the puppets and I’ve not heard hymns like those sung before. Events like this should happen more in the Church.”

Malcolm, 78, and Mary Beal, 73, from Hemyock, said: “It was a superb service, the sermon was clearly spoken with a good blend of song.”

There was plenty for youngsters at the event with puppet shows and entertainers. Ben Keenan, 40, of Cowley Bridge, and Dan Linsdell, 24, from Heavitree, both attend Pinhoe Road Baptist Church.

Dan said: “It’s amazing to see so many Christians from around Exeter, normally little groups work individually in their own community, it’s great witnessing them come together in the city.”