A Shakespearean actor who twice played Christ in the York Mystery Plays has died. He was 84. Dublin-born Joseph O'Conor is fondly remembered for his performances as Christ in the York Mystery Plays of 1951 and 1954.

Mr O'Conor continued to promote religious drama throughout his long and prodigious career and gave such a memorable performance as Christ in 1951 that he was invited to return three years later.

Last year, Gregory Doran, Artistic Director of the York Mystery Plays, hoped to cast the 84-year-old Mr O'Conor as God.

Unfortunately due to overseas commitments and failing health Mr O'Conor was unable to come.

Speaking to the Evening Press last year, Mr O'Conor said of his role as Christ: "It's one of those very special memories; probably the most shining of them all. I've played Hamlet, Lear, Othello, but Jesus is a unique role. You can't quite measure it."

Updated: 13:33 Thursday, January 25, 2001