With only 20 days until Christmas, the people of Calne in Wiltshire, UK got together to put on a festive event like no other, breaking the record for the Most living figures in a nativity scene.
 
Organised by Calne Town Council and charity Bible Society, a total of 1,254 participants re-enacted the birth of Jesus as described in the gospels of Matthew and Luke.
 
Most living figures in a nativity scene aerial view 
Everyone got a part in the record-breaking nativity scene, but the lead roles were given to members of a local drama club called Calne Players.
 
Mary was played by local mother Sarah Dawkins whose three-month-old son played baby Jesus.
 
Calne nativity 
Official Guinness World Records adjudicator Jack Brockbank was on hand to count and verify the huge Christmas-themed attempt.
 
Once the record was announced as successful, the town’s Christmas lights were switched on.
 
Town mayor Tom Rounds was thrilled with the outcome, saying: “The people of Calne have pulled together to show an amazing sense of community spirit.”
 
Calne nativity GWR certificate presentation 
Calne Town Mayor Tom Rounds, Rachel Rounds of Bible Society and Guinness World Records adjudicator Jack Brockbank
 
“The people of Calne - families and friends - did their bit by turning up on the night and joining in the spirit and fun of the event. It shows what communities can achieve when they come together,” he added.
 
Most living figures in a nativity scene shepherds 
Paul Williams, chief executive of the Bible Society, said: “People of faith; no faith and other faiths turned up tonight to celebrate the original Christmas story from the Bible.
 
“They had great fun; broke the world record and, we hope, brought the Bible to life.”
 
Previously the most figures in a living nativity scene was 1,039 people, achieved by The Radiant Foundation (USA) in Provo, Utah, USA, in 2014.
 
December 25 is just around the corner so now is the time to stock up on the perfect Christmas gift.
 
 
Guinness World Records 2017 Edition books