SCHOOLCHILDREN recreated the traditional story of Christmas thanks to an animated cockerel, a wise owl and a well-spoken cat.

The Pre-prep nativity play at Bede’s was titled Born in a Barn this year and the performance was strictly animal-based.

A school spokeswoman said: “The donkeys led Mary and Joseph to find the very smartly dressed Innkeeper who sadly had no room.

“Mary and Joseph sang beautifully, and certainly moved the audience and staff.

“The children were genuinely outstanding.

“They all learnt their lines brilliantly; their confidence to speak and act in front of packed audiences reflects the skills they learn within school to be confident independent members of the school and wider community.”