The story of the birth of Jesus came to life this Christmas as actors took part in an interactive living nativity throughout Aldbourne village.

More than 270 people flocked to the village to see the nativity performed by 50 volunteers who performed or worked back stage on the day.

Scenes from the nativity were staged in different parts of the village, as families were taken on a tour to learn about the traditional Christmas story.

Braving the cold, guests were led by the Angel Gabriel to tableaux including the wise shepherds and the stable scene.

Children were encouraged to ask actors questions, and the shepherds were grilled by some curious young people about how long they took to walk to see the baby Jesus.

Rev Candice Marcus said: “Searching questions from the children put the cast at each scene on the spot.

“The shepherds answered well and the children were quite impressed! It was great to see the community and church telling the story of Jesus’s birth together. It was remarkable.

“The whole community pulled together to make ‘Follow the Star’ a truly memorable and successful event enjoyed by hundreds, leaving all who came in no doubt that Jesus is the reason for the season after all it is his birthday we celebrate.

“A huge thank you to all who gave so much so that everyone could enjoy an amazing start to Christmas this year.”

Rev Marcus, who organised the nativity, added that the performance allowed visitors to put the commercialism, lights, presents and food of Christmas to one side to focus on the celebration of the Christian story.

The community project was organised by many churches in the area and even included a petting zoo for children to enjoy once they had seen the living nativity unfold.