A QUIRKY performance of the nativity tale took an unexpected twist at Okehampton Baptist Church, when the church pastor stepped into a crucial role.

The team behind 'Nativity 2', a humorous re-telling of the Christmas story, were missing their leading man in Joseph, who could not attend the play.

Pastor Jeff Jacobson stepped into the role, leading Mary and the angels on their journey to Bethlehem around the room, before making it to the stable so Mary could lay her baby in the manger.

Director of the play Jo Drew said: 'We had such fun again this year listening to the account of our saviour's birth, this time through the eyes of the Wise Men's wives! The sheep, camel and donkey were once again giving the audience banter with our new friend the crab making his first appearance.

'Christmas and Easter are the highlights in our year, celebrating the Christian faith, and it's such a great opportunity to let people know Christians are normal, have struggles, and go through stuff. Lots of new exciting things are happening here, and we ask everyone to come take a look.'

This New Year the church is introducing a music session for children so they can learn how to play instruments.

For more information in to the life of the church there is the church notice board, and Sunday services start at 11am. The building is also available to hire with kitchens and toilets on both levels.

You can follow the church online on both Facebook and Twitter, or go to the website http://www.okebaptists.org.uk">www.okebaptists.org.uk