They will be ordering passers by to ‘go to Bethlehem’ to be taxed, at the start of a Living Nativity re-enactment in the Cathedral Precincts, at 10.30am and again at 2.00pm.

With three Roman soldiers, two donkeys, Mary and Joseph, Gabriel, Herod, shepherds, kings and an innkeeper, all in costume, this will be a lively, family-friendly re-telling of the Christmas story to which everyone is welcome.

People are invited to gather at the Norman Arch, whatever the weather, and follow the action as the story unfolds outdoors, crossing the Cathedral Green and ending in the Cloisters. There will be a narrator, carols for the congregation to sing and a star to follow.

Volunteers from the Cathedral community have been busy making costumes and props for the occasion, and the main parts in the story will also be played by volunteers. The Year 3-5 Cathedral Choristers will form a ‘a choir of angels’.

The two donkeys, Jolly Joules and Dicky Mint (pictured), are coming from Sacrewell Farm with the people who look after them. They do not often travel away from the Farm so there is always the possibility that they may decide not to get into the horsebox on the day!

Everyone is advised to dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes. If the weather is very wet the event will go ahead anyway, starting at the Norman Arch but then heading straight into the shelter of the Cathedral.

It is expected that the Living Nativity will last around 45 minutes. There is no need to book and no charge, although donations will be invited.