Nativity takes to the streets in Flintshire village

Following the star... last year's unconventional nativity at Greenfield

The village of Ffynnongroyw in Flintshire is bringing the story of Christmas back to the people.

Nativity - On the Streets will involve participants walking through the village and telling 'off the record' stories of Christmas.

The event is being organised by Rev Stuart Elliott, Vicar of Llanasa and Ffynnongroyw.

"We'll be telling the story from the point of view of ordinary folk," he said.

Rev Elliott organised a so-called living nativity in Greenfield, near Holywell, last year.

It was organised out of necessity as the church was, at the time, being refurbished.

But the event was such a success that Rev Elliott decided to repeat it this year in his new parish.

The modern-day nativity will be scripted but parts will be randomly given out to those participating.

The people taking part read their scripts by candlelight

"Characters will include three wise men going shopping for gifts, gossips in the street talking about the woman who's pregnant and an irate farmer whose shepherds have left their flocks," said Rev Elliott.

The nativity will end at one of the village pubs where the participants will be hoping to find room and refreshments.

Rev Elliott thinks the event will attract people who are not regular church goers as well as the established congregation.

"We're trying to bring everyone in the village together," he said. "Everyone is invited to join in, and all can have a part to play."

And this is an event even the cold weather will not disrupt.

"We'll do it whatever the weather," he said.

The community event begins at the bottom of Llinegar Hill in Ffynnongroyw at 6pm on 23 December.