Ash Wednesday sees Christians on the Rock receive their ashes to mark the beginning of Lent

Today is Ash Wednesday when Christians around the world go to church to receive the ashes on their foreheads.  

Coming the day after Shrove Tuesdsay, it marks the start of Lent in the Christian calendar, and is seen as a time to repent, reflect and fast.

Many choose to give up certain foods during the 40 day period leading up to Easter, which this year falls on Sunday the 9th April.

But what does it all mean and why do many still follow these biblical traditions and rituals?

Ros Astengo paid a visit to the Very Reverend Ian Tarrant, Dean of Gibraltar, to find out.