A touch of Dibley will be coming to a Norfolk town this Christmas as a church hosts a Nativity with a difference – featuring live animals.

Eastern Daily Press: Staff and animals at PACT will be starring in their own Christmas Nativity show at St Mary's Church in Watton on December 4th. Pictured are (L) Alex Cockburn and Ray MacGregor. Picture: Ian BurtStaff and animals at PACT will be starring in their own Christmas Nativity show at St Mary's Church in Watton on December 4th. Pictured are (L) Alex Cockburn and Ray MacGregor. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2016)

Donkeys and sheep will be among the four-legged stars of the Christmas Story at St Mary's Church in Watton.

PACT Animal Sanctuary near Hingham will be bringing the furry cast members, who will join shepherds, wise men and angels on stage for a show complete with carol singing and performances from the Springs Dance Company.

Rather than inviting the animals into the church as Geraldine Granger did in the eponymous Vicar of Dibley episode, the Nativity will take place on the church field adjacent to St Mary's on Sunday, December 4 in a heated marquee provided by the Weatherill Brothers.

It forms part of a weekend of festive celebrations in the town, including a market and Santa's Grotto.

Eastern Daily Press: Staff and animals at PACT will be starring in their own Christmas Nativity show at St Mary's Church in Watton on December 4th. Picture: Ian BurtStaff and animals at PACT will be starring in their own Christmas Nativity show at St Mary's Church in Watton on December 4th. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2016)

Co-organiser the Rev Deborah Hamilton-Grey said: 'The Special Christmas Weekend promises to be a fun-filled joyous occasion and is happening as a consequence of all the goodwill of small businesses and charitable groups in Watton and surrounding areas. All are welcome to join us!'

Watton's mayor Beryl Bunning will kick off the festivities on Saturday, December 3 at 10am.

The day's event on the church field will include mulled wine and hot dogs, sale and entertainment stalls, and a raffle with prizes donated by local businesses including a one-month membership at Full Fitness Gym.

Children and adults are encouraged to come dressed as their favourite Christmassy characters and there will be prizes for the best costumes.

Eastern Daily Press: Staff and animals at PACT will be starring in their own Christmas Nativity show at St Mary's Church in Watton on December 4th. Pictured is Rev Deborah Hamilton-Grey. Picture: Ian BurtStaff and animals at PACT will be starring in their own Christmas Nativity show at St Mary's Church in Watton on December 4th. Pictured is Rev Deborah Hamilton-Grey. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant 2016)

The weekend's events are being held in aid of charity and entry will be free.

Anyone who would like to join the choir for the Nativity can attend the rehearsal at St Mary's Church on Wednesday, November 30 at 7pm.

To find out more, see the 'A Special Christmas Weekend Watton' Facebook page or contact Revd Hamilton-Grey at deborah.hamiltongrey@gmail.com.