WITH a lowly stable and a very special baby in a manger, the country's most easterly park will be transformed into the setting for the Christmas story for a special outdoor Nativity play.

WITH a lowly stable and a very special baby in a manger, the country's most easterly park will be transformed into the setting for the Christmas story for a special outdoor Nativity play.

Members of the congregation from Lowestoft's Christ Church have been busy preparing for a full-scale open air production of the Nativity, which will feature adult actors, a live band and real animals.

The bandstand at Sparrow's Nest Gardens, off Whapload Road, will become the focal point of the performance as it is turned into the stable where the baby Jesus is born for the show on Saturday at 4pm.

Vicar Matthew Payne, who came up with the idea of a free outdoor Nativity, said: 'We wanted to strip the story back to its original form, and away from everything else which is now associated with Christmas.

'The focus will be the baby in the manger and what he represents. We are aiming for it to be as realistic as possible so people can think about the true story of Christmas.'

As well as adult actors and baby Joram Kears in the starring role, one of the donkeys which gives rides on the resort's beach in the summer months will be helping Mary and Joseph get to Bethlehem.

There will also be real animals in the stable and a live band accompanying the drama and playing carols so that the audience can sing along.

Rev Payne, whose wife Roz is directing the performance, said: 'The show will go on whatever the weather, so wrap up warm and bring your family and friends along.

'Hopefully people who would not usually go to a church service will come along to celebrate Christmas and enjoy the atmosphere.'

The will be a collection after the play for East Anglia's Children's Hospices. Entry is free, but space is limited for safety reasons and all children must be accompanied by an adult.

There will be a free car park opposite the gardens on Whapload Road and the public access will be via the main corner gate, or down the footpath from the top gate next to the A12.