Pet pooches were the stars of the show at one church in St Ives for a remake of the greatest story ever told.

St Ives Methodist Church decided to hold their “dog nativity” after performances were cancelled due to ongoing Covid concerns.

Wisbech Standard: St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance.St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance. (Image: Rev Nick Witham)

“There was lots of corny dog jokes and puns – we even built a stable scene,” Rev Nick Witham said.

The nativity was held outside, with a St Bernard as Angel Gabriel and a couple of smaller pooches as Mary and Joseph.

Rev Nick continued: “The dogs got dressed up as particular characters.

“Baby Jesus was well behaved and stayed in the manger with no accidents!”

Wisbech Standard: St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance.St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance. (Image: Rev Nick Witham)

Some 17 dogs took part in total.

“We have had great feedback with many saying that it was a fantastic idea to engage with the Christmas story in a really fun way,” Rev Nick added.

“Everyone left with a smile and something to ‘paw-nder!’

Wisbech Standard: St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance.St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance. (Image: Rev Nick Witham)

Wisbech Standard: St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance.St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance. (Image: Rev Nick Witham)

Wisbech Standard: St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance.St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance. (Image: Rev Nick Witham)

Wisbech Standard: St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance.St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance. (Image: Rev Nick Witham)

Wisbech Standard: St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance.St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance. (Image: Rev Nick Witham)

Wisbech Standard: St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance.St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance. (Image: Rev Nick Witham)

Wisbech Standard: St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance.St Ives Methodist Church held a “dog nativity” performance. (Image: Rev Nick Witham)