Thousands of people are taking part in a “March for Jesus” across Belfast.

The march started at 14:00 BST at the Ormeau Embankment and is heading down through Ravenhill Road towards the city, ending up at the city hall.

Police said road users should expect delays in the city centre between 14:00 and 16:30.

The service at the City Hall is being led by the musician Brian Houston and will have speakers from various churches.

Organisers of the non-denominational event said the it was a “family-friendly, non-political event to lift up the name of Jesus in Belfast city”.

The Parades Commission application, from the All Nations Church, said organisers were anticipating a crowd of about 5,000.

Edith, who travelled from Dublin, said she is “really surprised” by the number of people at the parade.

“I am really happy to be here.”

Chano, who travelled from Moira for the parade, said he is looking forward to “seeing everyone come together”.

“I think it’s a brilliant idea, and it’s community at the end of the day.”

Chano said he feels events like this are especially important given the state of the world at the moment.

“There is evil in the world, so there must be an equal and opposite force.”

Martha Blackstock, from East Belfast, said she is excited for the parade and is “praising God that we have the opportunity to do this”.

Michelle Barden, from Newry, said she is excited to be with “like-minded people”.

“I think people have realised that religion, especially in this country, is restrictive and destructive. We don’t have religion, we just have relationship.”

Fiona Bennett, from Larne, said she “would absolutely love” to see more events like this.

“I’m hoping we will get near to the City Hall for the concert and the praise and worship afterwards.”

City-bound traffic on the Albertbridge Road is being diverted up the Woodstock Link/Woodstock Road, with further diversions in place along the Ravenhill Road and in the city centre.

Traffic entering the city from the east are advised to do so via Queen’s Bridge or Nelson Street, as the Short Strand will also be closed for resurfacing work.

The March for Jesus events are held across the world.