THE organiser of Chard’s walking nativity has thanked the great numbers who turned out in spite of the rain.

Following the turnout for the inaugural Follow That Star, Cheryl Swift is already planning next year’s event.

Her full letter said:

"I would like to thank everyone who braved the rain to support the walking nativity ‘Follow that star’ on December 16.

"It was a truly joyful occasion with everyone joining in singing carols and enjoying the re-enactment of the bible story, complete with four Romans Soldiers and donkeys.

"This was a truly churches together event with actors from the English Martyrs, Baptist church and St Marys.

"The other churches, the Methodist church, South Chard church, The Good Shepherd and Forefront played a role in advertising, choir, carol sheets, fund raising, use of their rooms and committee support.

"The two donkeys were amazingly good and were hired from Weymouth Beach. Although adults were not allowed to ride them, children were able to sit on them at the end.

"My thanks also go to Chard concert Brass who gave a wonderful performance and carried on playing in the drizzle. They even gave a spine tingling fanfare to herald the Romans.

"The scratch choir from South Chard church and Serenade community choir, led the carol singing so well.

"A special mention goes to the community who were involved, Sarah at the Phoenix pub who played the Innkeeper and made the pub into the Bethlehem Inn, and The Lions of Ilminster who served refreshments in the kitchen. They made £101 in donations and have already given that to MPH for the Scanner appeal fund.

"The Lords Larder food bank collected food gifts to the baby Jesus to include gifts from the three Wise men (kings).

"Thank you also goes to ‘Open the Book’ who organised nativity story telling complete with costumes in the library on Saturday, December 15, also to Steve Williams from ‘Open the Book ‘who narrated the story so well and kept everyone’s interest.

"It was so lovely to see Steve’s grandchild Holly playing the star.

"The craft stalls were colourful and filled with gifts for last minute shopping and The Gideons were there to give out lovely little new Testaments.

"Last but not least, a thank you goes to the Mayor Garry Shortland for his support all year with the planning, marshalling and making a lovely star over the Guildhall."