PICTURES: Youngsters at Woodpeckers Nursery in Sudbury recreate nativity story to mark arrival of Christmas

Youngsters at a nursery in Sudbury explored the true meaning of Christmas during their first performance of a nativity.

Pre-school children from Woodpeckers Nursery performed to 120 family members and friends at Our Lady and Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church.

“It’s something we have been organising for quite a few years now and it’s always nice to do,” said owner Deirdre Micklewright, who has run the nursery with her husband, Jeff, for nearly two decades.

Accompanied by Mr Micklewright on the guitar, youngsters sang traditional festive songs, which featured Jingle Bells and We Wish You a Merry Christmas.

The audience were impressed by the children’s recital of a traditional Christmas song in French, which they had learnt during their weekly language sessions.

“They performed it very well and they did all the actions,” said Mrs Micklewright. “Some children had microphones.”

Having started preparations for the performance last month, Mrs Micklewright said all the hard work had paid off.

“The parents really enjoyed it. We have had some lovely feedback and comments,” she said, adding that family members played a key part in supporting the event. “It’s a partnership, involving all the parents, grandparents and friends.

After the performance, guests were invited to the nursery for mince pies and refreshments, while youngsters were treated to a festive-themed party on Friday.

Next year will mark the nursery’s 20th anniversary, which the team hope to mark with a special event.