The story of Christmas was brought to life again this year with a stunning real-life re-enactmentstory of the nativity.

An estimated 1,000 people turned to watch the tale unfold in Horsmonden, with more than 100 villagers in the cast along with countless animals.

Mary and Joseph, played by Alex Noble and Olivia Lignac, arrived on a donkey and fruitlessly sought accommodation at both the Highwayman and Gun and Spit Roast pubs before having to settle for a manger on the village green.

King Herod was also present, with some intimidating Roman soldiers keeping order.

Baby Jesus was played by five-week-old Scarlett White; the shepherds had real sheep to look after and the Wise Men arrived with a camel.

It is the third year Horsmonden has hosted a live nativity on a grand scale.

Organiser Mary-Anne Marsh said: “I think this year was bigger and better than ever.
“The only problem was the weather, which had been desperately bad, and before the end we were sinking into four inches of mud.”