AND lo, the Virgin Mary arrived in Bethlehem on a tractor and kicked off her trainers as she settled down into a barn for the night.

Well, maybe it's a modern take on the lead up to the birth of Baby Jesus as told in the Gospels.

But a Taunton church has given the nativity a 21st Century twist.

If you're passing the United Reformed Church, in Paul Street, you can't fail to see a larger-than-life outdoor crib scene.

It features Mary and Joseph in contemporary style in a tractor shed - and on Christmas Eve they'll be joined by a Christ child in a baby gro.

The bright colours, vibrant halos and spotlights ensure you can’t miss it.

It’s been designed by local artist Norman Steel, a retired priest who enjoys presenting the Christian faith in ways that bring it to life. And it’s all been built by Taunton firm George Bros.

On Sunday the congregation and their minister, the Rev Dr Susan Durber, ended the service outside despite the rain to dedicate the crib with a prayer.

Church administrator Ron Williams said: "We hope the powerful art installation conveys in a fresh way the wonder of the Christmas story, that God was born among ordinary people just like us - to change our lives for good."

This Sunday (December 17), the congregation will be singing carols outside, giving out free food and then celebrating with Carols by Candlelight at 4pm with guest choir The Hummingbirds.