CHRISTMAS stars shone brightly in Darlington as tiny tots took to the stage for a traditional festive tale.

Little angels, shepherds, wise men, Mary, Joseph and a number of animals delighted a packed audience of parents and grandparents as the children of West Park Academy performed the story of the nativity.

The 50 nursery and reception pupils, aged from three to five, spent weeks rehearsing their lines and songs for the production Hey Ewe, which told the story of the journey to see the baby Jesus and the shepherds’ curious sheep.

Year five teaching assistant, Caroline Black, whose daughter Sophie, four, took on the role of the Christmas star, said: “I know all of the children have been really excited about performing in the nativity.

“It was quite an ambitions production and the teaching staff really tried hard to make sure every pupil had a speaking part.

“The performance was wonderful and really got everyone in the Christmas spirit.”

Headteacher Catherine Thompson added: “It’s not easy to perform to such a large amount of people, especially when you are only three, but all of the children did a wonderful job.

“The nativity is always one of the highlights of the school calendar and a lovely way to end the year - and it helps remind us all of the true story of Christmas.”