A controversial religious painting, censored after church goers complained it celebrated animal worship, has been unveiled after ten years under cover.

The 3m high work, which adorns a wall in Bishop Hannington Church, Hove, has caused divisions since it was originally shown to the congregation in 1941, following a commission by the Bishop of Chichester.

Worshippers said the painting's message was inconsistent with the teachings of the Bible since it portrays a variety of religions, including Buddhism next to the deification of a horse or donkey, as well as Christianity.

However, the curtain put up to hide the scene is being brought down - all in the name of art.

The wraps are coming off for one week only after the church was chosen to host an art exhibition showcasing local talent as part of the Brighton Festival Fringe.

Co-organiser Annelies Clarke, 47, said: "It was controversial from the start.

"The idea with the painting is that Christ is the focus but people's eyes keep getting drawn to the horse.

"People didn't want to look at other religions so the decision was made to cover the painting up.

"It is something which has divided the church at times - the issue is brought up every year at the AGM.

"It is so much part of the interior that we felt it had to be uncovered for the exhibition."

However, she said there were still dissenters.

She said: "People are delighted that it is being revealed but you always get strong voices who still want it covered up.

"The discussion is ongoing but I am very happy about having an exhibition in the church and the painting is part of that.

"The church and culture are often separated so this is a way if bringing them together and showing that there can be normal people in the church as well."

Reverend Tony Baker confirmed the veil will go up again as soon as the exhibition is over.

He said: "It is appropriate for the exhibition that the curtain has come down but it will remain covered after it is over.

"There have been some questions over the artistic quality of the painting though people's views vary over that.

"Some have interpreted it as suggesting there are alternatives to Christianity and that is not what the Bible says.

"I'm happy that it will stay covered and I think that is the most appropriate course of action."

The exhibition, called God's Design and including children's work from nearby schools, is on from tomorrow to Sunday May 11.

Admission is free.

Brighton Festival guide at thisisbrightonandhove.co.uk/leisure/festival