Babies Honoured at Nativity Ceremony

Hundreds of babies were taken to Glasgow's George Square for a special event to celebrate their first Christmas.

The babies were given little angels as a keepsake to mark the event, as the city's Lord Provost Liz Cameron and church leaders led a torch-lit procession from the City Chambers for the blessing of the nativity scene.

In addition, each baby, whose parents phoned in advance, got a scroll with their name to mark the occasion.

Kenny Boyle, organiser of the event, said the Blessing of the Crib ceremony is proving so popular there are already plans to expand it to allow more babies next year.

He added: "Glasgow is the only place in Britain to do something like this and people have taken the event to their hearts."

The half-hour service took place on Saturday afternoon.

Ms Cameron said: "Christmas is an important time for us all to reflect on the year that has gone and the year to come.

"It is also a special time for children and I am delighted to welcome young people, including those celebrating their first Christmas, to George Square."

There was also carol singing and a brass band, and Santa Claus was on hand to join in with the festivities.