Nativity baby comes to life

The star of a nativity play in Maidenhead came to life when baby Jesus was played by a real tot for the 18th year running.

The important role was played by little Michael Hoad, who laid in the manger while Poundfield Pre-schoolers performed on stage at the Poundfield Community Hall.

The concept of having a real baby to play Christ has become a tradition at the self-running nursery.

Heather Piper, community development worker at Toynbee, which owns the Radcot Close hall, said: "Having a real baby makes the nativity exciting and realistic for the children rather than having a plastic doll. It also makes it extra special and more personal that the babies can say they have played Jesus when they grow up.

"All the children from the pre-school had a part and it was very sweet, and Michael was a little treasure."