A Cambridgeshire farm turns its zoo and staff into a Nativity cast to raise funds for a local church.
Image credit: John Devine/BBC
By John Devine
Old Hurst, Cambridgeshire
Staff and animals from a visitor farm and zoo stepped into the roles of a Nativity scene to support a neighborhood church with donations.
Andy Johnson, owner of Johnsons of Old Hurst, explained his aim was to help people “remember the true meaning of Christmas.” In a clever twist, five-month-pregnant zookeeper Kat Choppin played Joseph so she could guide a trained donkey, while Lucy Leeder portrayed Mary and rode the animal to keep it calm and prevent any sudden bolting.
Canon Fred Kilner of St Peter’s Church in the village expressed his delight at receiving nearly £2,000 from the event, noting that the funds would help keep the church building open for everyone.
The farm, known for its extraordinary residents including crocodiles, is run by Andy Johnson, a fourth-generation farmer based north of St Ives. He said he was “really happy” with the turnout for what was the farm’s first Nativity performance and that the animals behaved well on the day.
Johnson recalled that his main duty in the show was operating a telehandler to lift the Angel Gabriel about 6 meters (20 feet) into the air.
He added that today’s portrayal reminded people that Christmas has a deeper message beyond gifts and Santa, a sentiment that inspired him to revive the Nativity for the community.
The audience turnout was estimated at about 400 people for a single performance. The event also featured the Somersham Town Band, which blended traditional Christmas carols into the Nativity narrative.
Johnsons has previously hosted traveling circuses and Christmas markets among other events, highlighting the farm’s diverse use.
Johnson said the experience has encouraged him to consider staging the Nativity again next year.
Canon Kilner, rural Dean of St Ives, is currently assisting the St Peter’s Church ministry while a new vicar is appointed, and he praised the Old Hurst community for its generosity.
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