Children from across the borough got into the festive spirit to recount the nativity story with a twist this week.

Some told the story from the point of animals, and others told it through interviews with shepherds, the kings and angels.

Key Stage 1 children from R.J. Mitchell School performed Born in a Barn earlier this week. The children, aged four to seven told it through the eyes of the animals who were present with a wise old owl explaining why baby Jesus was so special.

Headteacher Barry Read said: “The children have worked very hard these past two weeks to learn their lines and the eight very catchy songs that help to tell the story.

“We are very proud and looked forward to the performances. Well done to all the children and staff who have helped put together such a great nativity play.”

The reception and nursery children from Crowlands Primary School performed a traditional nativity play for parents on Monday, while Years 3 to 6 performed a Christmas show, called Witnesses. The people at the birth of Jesus gave accounts of how they perceived what happened.

Hayley McClenaghan, acting head of the school, said: “The children have loved rehearsing and have enjoyed performing this week. Christmas has definitely hit Crowlands.”

After the performances the school was collecting money for Loeys-Dietz Syndrome Research Centre in aid of Reception pupil Alfie Thorn, who has been diagnosed with the condition which is so rare doctors thought he was the first person in the UK to have it.

At Nelmes Primary School, in Hornchurch, more than 180 children were performing the nativity play for parents, grandparents and friends. Shilpa Parma from the school said: “The children have been practising hard and have thoroughly enjoyed it.”