Parents of children attending Pamphill First School were able to watch a nativity play – outside.

There were two carefully planned productions with children remaining in their bubbles, and a pair of real donkeys gave a stellar performance.

Head of school Rachael Oliver didn’t want anyone to miss out on the annual event and with sponsorship from Howarth Construction she made it happen.

Mums and dads brought their own camping chairs and sat apart from each other as the cast took on their roles.

Pamphill, a Church of England school, and part of Wimborne Academy Trust is situated on National Trust land.

Rachael said, “We usually have our nativity in Wimborne Minster but that was not possible this year.

“There was a morning and afternoon performance with the sets being sanitised between.

“We were very lucky to have two donkeys which our Marys and Josephs were able to ride as part of the performances.

“So Many parents have told us how much this meant to them; that after such a difficult year it was a delight to see their children dressed up and enjoying performing in this memorable and special event.

“The nativity is not just a tradition, it is a way of to teach the children about the story of Jesus’ birth, so they understand what Christmas is all about.”

Liz West, chief executive officer of WAT, said: “It has been a very difficult term for our schools, but they have all made Christmas happen one way or another

“Pamphill’s work-round was creative and innovative and I’m delighted it went ahead.”