An unorthodox St Albans church is celebrating Christmas with a twist this year.

Every person in the congregation of Holy Trinity Frogmore is being invited to dress up for the annual Nativity play.

All costumes are acceptable, including Mary, Joseph, the shepherds, the three kings, stars, donkeys or anything more obscure.

Vicar Reverend Nick Weir said: “We’re all used to seeing children dress up as Nativity characters in school plays but we thought it would be fun to get the entire church in fancy dress so we can celebrate Jesus’ birthday together.

“It’ll be a fun opportunity on Christmas Eve for families to come together in a way that is relevant and encourages parents and children alike to join in with the real meaning of the Christmas celebrations.”

The church service takes place at 4pm on December 24 and lasts 45 minutes. But if dressing up really isn’t for you, fancy dress is not obligatory.