Some Darlington residents were confused earlier today (April 7) when they spotted 'Jesus' walking across the town wearing a crown of thorns and bearing a cross - but despite first appearances, it is not the second coming. 

Rather than the son of God, it was Francis Jones, an ex-professional boxer and TV star, who wanted to bring the word of God to Darlington on Good Friday. 

Around Darlington, the Rent a Cop star was spotted bearing a homemade crucifix, wearing a Jesus-style white and a crown of thorns, and talking to people about the meaning of Easter.  

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In the video, Francis says: "Hello folks, happy Easter. Two thousand years ago, there was a lad called Jesus and he died for the sins of man."

About his mega tree trunk crucifix, Francis said, "It weighs a ton, my shoulders are hurting really bad!", before carrying on down the street to bring the world of God to more people in the centre of Darlington. 

The man who took the video, family friend Axel Tucker, explained: "Since a big boxing injury [Francis] has been very religious, and is forever trying to raise awareness. He's a very good and loyal man.

"Anything related to religion that he can do to have an educational bit of banter he will. He's a real larger-than-life guy."

Those who did not know Francis were concerned and amused in equal measure - with one saying: "Anyone else seen the man walking down Neasham Road, dressed as Jesus with blood coming out of his head and carrying a massive cross? 

Another quipped: "Nothing surprises me anymore!"