A HUGE crowd of adults, children and donkeys gathered in Cirencester’s Parish Church yesterday, to hear the famous story of Christmas.

The Christmas Donkey service, organised by Reverend Andrew Bowden and members of the church, saw children from schools all over the Cotswolds attending.

Reverend Gary Grady at the Parish Church said he thought it was a wonderful service. Children and other guests sang famous hymns such as 'Little Donkey', 'Silent Night' and 'O Little Town of Bethlehem'.

"It's wonderful to allow the children to join in and be part of the Christmas story," he said. "It's a story that has been passed down for more than 2,000 years and we are all here because we have heard that story and it has been brought to life us us today."

Organiser Reverend Bowden said: "It was a wonderful having so many people. Everyone started out very enthusiastic."

Reverend Bowden and his wife Sue bought along their three sheep, Gertie, Lucky and Nina, to the service and children all took turns to pet them.

Also enjoying the spotlight were two donkeys Gentle and Lily, dressed up in sparkly Christmas gear, as well as a few chickens.

Children from local schools such as Watermoor Primary School and Cirencester Primary School attended the service, and many dressed up as angels, wise men or shepherds for the occasion.

"The animals were all very well behaved, as were the children," Father Gary joked.

A retiring collection for homeless charity Signpost and for the church, and thanks went out to estate agents Knight Frank and Rendcomb College for sponsoring the event.