CHILDREN attending the Christmas Crib service at St Mary’s Church in Thornbury were given a festive surprise this year in the form of two donkeys.

More than 150 children turned out for the service, which was fortunately dry after days of rain, and were given the chance to meet the visitors.

Bella and Cinderella, who made the trip from the Shepperdine Riding School, were to remind the younger attendees of the Nativity story in the Bible, waiting to meet them in their horse box, which was parked at the church entrance.

The youngsters were allowed to get up close to Bella and Cinderella for pictures and the chance to pat and feed them with carrots that were handed out.

“It was a great surprise for them to find the donkeys at the door of the church, just like the one Mary probably rode to Bethlehem.” said the Reverend Jan van der Lely. 

“It helped bring the story to life for them.

“We usually have a donkey for the Palm Sunday procession, but this was the first time we have had donkeys at the Crib Service. They were a great success.”

It was also a new experience for Bella and Cinderella, who clearly enjoyed the change of scenery. 

“Our donkeys had never been to a church event before but they behaved beautifully, especially considering they are both still young,” said Jean Ward, the donkeys' owner. 

“Living at riding stables, they are used to people making a fuss of them and the children seemed to love them.”