THERE was something surreal about watching Johnny Flynn walk onstage in front of a full-on nativity scene, comp-lete with kings and crib.

But then this performance was taking place in St George’s Church – and it was two weeks before Christmas.

So, with the shepherds keeping watch, we settled into our pews, glass of wine in hand, peering down from the upper gallery.

One thing’s for sure about Johnny Flynn And The Sussex Wit; they know how to have a good time. We were treated to a rousing mix of guitar, banjo and trumpet that resonated to the rafters.

As for the songs themselves, new material from Been Listening was cushioned with classics from previous album A Larum.

Up in the viewing gallery the vocals were accompanied by gentle foot tapping, while at the front it was less reserved with some screaming and dancing – albeit in a very polite way.

Johnny Flynn has the kind of voice that warms your heart, shown off at its best by the impressive acoustics of this 19th century church.

Not many singers can make a cavernous church venue on a cold evening feel warm and intimate.