AWAY in a manger some sheep, Shetland ponies, a donkey, a highland cow and a llama re-enacted the Christmas story at Roves Farm.

The Kentwood Show Choir joined the festive scene to sing carols in aid of the Prospect Hospice in Wroughton.

Visitors sat on straw bales in the nativity stable while children led the donkey and sheep on to the stage. Rupert Burr, owner of the farm, said: “It was an absolutely fantastic concert, which allowed everybody to get involved and even the donkey joined in with the singing.’’ This is the seventh year the farm has joined in the festive fun and until Thursday visitors have the chance to dress up in more than 60 different costumes to join the nativity taking on the roles of Mary, Joseph, shepherds, kings and angels.

The play is narrated so no one has to learn lines.

Santa’s elves pop up all over the farm to guide visitors either to the Bethlehem’s stable or to follow the thousands of fairy lights to the grotto to meet Father Christmas.

Every child receives a gift and has the chance to pop into Mrs Christmas’ Post Office to write and send their letters to Santa.

Roves Farm opens from Friday, December 17, to Thursday, December 23, from 10.30am to 5pm.

More details are at www.rovesfarm.co.uk or call 01793 763939.

l School nativities: Pages 14&15