Grown-ups take over nativity play

Mary (Katherine Owen) on Mul the donkey with Joseph (Ifor Glyn)

Generations of parents have watched their youngsters performing spirited renditions of the nativity play.

But Caernarfon has turned that tradition on its head with an all-adult performance in the town square.

Mary, played by 5ft 8in town clerk Katherine Owen, 34, admitted: "I feel a bit sorry for the donkey really, having to carry me across the square."

Organisers said it was meant to show Christmas is a season for all, and not simply for children.

I think the event is a brilliant idea, but I haven't ridden side-saddle for a few years Katherine Owen, who plays Mary

"The reaction of the crowd when they realise the play is acted by adults is very interesting," said the Reverend Ron Williams, from one of the chapels and churches involved in the show.

"We do it deliberately to show people that Christmas is a time for everyone, not just children."

Mr Williams said he was always amazed at the lengths to which people went to make sure the show was a success.

"A man brings us a donkey from Anglesey - he doesn't have to do it, and he won't take anything from us for his trouble.

Suitably adult sheep join the mature cast in the town square

"Another man brings the sheep along from Trefor, and again does it just to help out.

"I love the fact that the spirit of the occasion shines through."

Whether by divine intervention or otherwise, the weather stayed fine just long enough for the half-hour show on Wednesday night

Ms Owen, who is Caernarfon Town Council's first female clerk, made her entrance on Mul the donkey, led by her fictional husband Joseph, played by Ifor Glyn.

She said: "I think the event is a brilliant idea, but I haven't ridden side-saddle for a few years."

Along with the nativity play, the evening featured the town mayor switching on the Christmas lights, a choir of local schoolchildren, and carol singing.