A TRAVELLING Nativity is being staged on Exmoor by farmer and publican Ed Greenall, provided he can find 19 people to host it.

The event continues the Latin American tradition of Las Posadas, which began in Mexico, re-enacting the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem from December 16 to 24.

In Exmoor’s case, figures of Mary and Joseph will travel across the moor through Advent from December 1 to 20 to reach a stable in Simonsbath, where a carol service will be held on the final day.

Mr Greenall, who owns the Exmoor Forest Inn, in Simonsbath, with his brothers Freddie, and Alexander, said: “This is not a religious thing, despite the concept.

“It is just a community thing and all you need to do is provide a couple of sets of consecutive days in December when you are free.

“The Posada tradition has become a beautiful way to mark Advent, bringing neighbours together in friendship, especially in times of recent adversity for communities.

“Each evening, a hosting household welcomes the figures of Mary and Joseph into their home, offers a little hospitality to those who hosted them the previous night, and then the next day accompanies them to their next destination.

“The format is completely flexible, some may offer a glass of wine, others may wish to say a short prayer, others may offer a cup of tea and a mince pie.

“We hope you will give this a go, as a community thing.”

Anybody who wants to take part should email Mr Greenall at [email protected] and suggest two different sets of consecutive days when they could both host and travel with Mary and Joseph.

The word ‘posada’ means ‘inn’ or ‘lodging’, hence families take in Mary and Joseph for the night and provide hospitality.