Life-size nativity float brings Christmas cheer to Quedgeley

Published: Tuesday December 17, 2024

The local community smiling by the nativity float which has visited some housesA life-size nativity scene, crafted by the Gloucester Men’s Shed and displayed on a trailer, is spreading festive cheer to the local residents of Quedgeley.

Mark Siddall, Priest in Charge at St James, Quedgeley and unofficial Chaplain to the Gloucester Men’s Shed, said: “I thought the area around the church would lend itself really well to a life-size nativity scene. The Men’s Shed brought this vision to life, crafting the figures from plywood, which were then carefully painted by St James’ churchwarden, Andrew Wakely.”

The nativity float, which is transported around Quedgeley and accompanied by recorded carol music, has been visiting older areas and newly built estates in Quedgeley.

“It’s been a really great way of sharing the Christmas story with the whole community,” Mark explained. “Some new estates are too large for traditional carollers to visit everyone, and the new estates often don’t have the tradition of carollers coming round.

“Also, for people who are bed bound, and who get knocks on their door after dark, it can be a bit scary, so having carols played on the float outside allows people to come to the door if they are able to or if they choose. Others can just watch from their window.”

The nativity float outside the Church in daylightThe nativity float has been well-received by the residents: “The parish has 30,000 people, we have several large new estates, and we are just visiting them one by one. We have met hundreds of people who have been happy to see it coming past, with big smiles on their faces. Children have been spellbound, and people have been so grateful for us coming around,” Mark said.

Members of The Gloucester Men's ShedThe Gloucester Men’s Shed is a group which provides a space for men to come together and do woodwork, metalwork, and other practical projects in a supportive and social environment.

“It’s not specifically for mental health, as we don’t want people to feel they have to self-identify as having mental health challenges to join,” Mark said. “It does provide a distinct and special purpose for those who may be struggling, offering a space where they can feel safe, express their talents, and enjoy fellowship.”

Volunteers from St James drive the trailer, and distribute flyers about church activities, inspiring some residents to make donations. Mark said: “It’s a great way to introduce St James to the community and remind people that it’s their church too and they are welcome, especially over Christmas.”

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