CHILDREN across Oxfordshire have been treating parents to their interpretations of the Nativity.

Thousands of children have been taking part in the re-telling of the festive story.

Among the schools presenting plays to pupils’ families and friends has been Gateway School in Carterton where pupils staged Holy Joe (The Unsung Hero) – the traditional Christmas story seen through the eyes of Joseph.

Over in Bicester, pupils at Bure Park Primary School delighted family and friends with another Nativity play with a twist.

In Christmas With the Aliens visitors from another world land on Earth to see the Nativity.

Pupils at William Fletcher School, in Yarnton, performed their play on Monday. School administrator Sandra Morris said: “The play was brilliant, and the children really enjoyed themselves.

“The Nativity play is such an important part of Christmas and it is lovely to see young people still taking part in it.”

The Rev Adam Romanis, of SS Mary and John Church in Cowley Road, Oxford, said: “Nativity plays are an essential part of the cultural package of Christmas, and work on many levels.

“Faith-wise, there is the message of heaven touching earth. But there is for everyone the universal theme of hope and rejoicing at a birth.

“Everyone wants a better world, especially thinking of their kids.

“And it is often the children who are best at communicating the message of challenge and hope for the world.”

Has your school got a Nativity play coming up? Or did you take pictures of your school’s performance? Call reporter Dan Hearn on 01865 425498, or email picturedesk@oxfordmail.co.uk