The BBC has been criticised – for filming its Easter Songs of Praise special last November.

It was recorded immediately after a Christmas service at Lichfield Cathedral in Staffordshire, reports the Mirror.

Producers switched flowers to reflect changing seasons and boosted lighting to simulate a brighter day.

They even got the congregation to switch seats and ditch their winter clothes.

The Bishop of Lichfield, the Right Reverend Jonathan Gledhill, said: “People lose confidence in what they see if they believe it is created, rather than really happening.

“We all thought it was strange to film the Easter special in November. It will give an air of unreality to the Easter programme.”

A BBC spokeswoman said: “There was no deceit intended. It was made clear to the Cathedral and the congregation that we wanted to record two programmes while we were there.

“It is common practice to take advantage of a spectacular setting and make efficient use of resources. Song of Praise does this regularly. It is never filmed live.”

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