Small Town Sets New Record For World's Largest Nativity

In real life, there probably wouldn't have been much room in the stable for many more than the Holy Family itself when Jesus was born in Bethlehem.

But that didn't stop Bible Society from pushing the boundaries of the story of the birth of Jesus, to the point of setting a new Guinness World Record.

Bible Society, along with Calne town council in Wiltshire, has now been awarded the record for world's largest nativity play.

They had to defeat the previous record, taken by Utah in 2014, of 1,039 people taking part in a nativity.

Led by the Calne Players, an amateur dramatics group, dozens of wise men, shepherds ,angels, donkeys, sheep and even stars gathered on the town green.

In the end, 1,254 people took part.

The Bible Society posted on Facebook: "Delighted to say that, along with Calne Town Council, we now hold the Guinness World Record for the largest nativity! Thanks to everyone who took part and made this possible!"

The record was for the "most living figures in a nativity scene" and everyone had to take part in the nativity for at least 30 minutes. Those who arrived without costumes were given clothes to wear and wore a special white wristband to make sure the count was accurate.

The nativity was linked to Calne's Christmas lights switch-on and also included a live video link to early Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem, where it all began.

Tom Rounds, Mayor of Calne, said: "What an extraordinary achievement and what a fantastic night. In rising to the challenge, the people of Calne have pulled together to show an amazing sense of community spirit. Everyone from the local laundrette, who gave us sheets for costumes; to the local pubs and hotels; schools and charities, played their part in making the day the success it has become.

"Most of all, the people of Calne - families and friends - did their bit by turning up on the night and joining in the spirit and fun of the event. It shows what communities can achieve when they come together."

Paul Williams, chief executive of Bible Society, said: "People of faith; no faith and other faiths turned up tonight to celebrate the original Christmas story from the Bible. They had great fun; broke the world record and, we hope, brought the Bible to life. We hope people were reminded where the story came from and what it means to millions of Christians across the globe."

The Church Army and Salisbury diocese also had people involved and both joined the celebrations: