WEEKS of learning lines, practising songs, preparing costumes and rehearsing together paid off for dozens of pupils and teachers across Tynedale.

Families flocked to local first and primary schools to see Nativity performances, which are often the perfect way to kick-start the Christmas holidays.

Our photographer, Kate Buckingham, was invited to capture snapshots of some of the talented young cast members, while other schools chose to send in images of their little stars.

Copies of all photographs taken by the Hexham Courant can be ordered online at https://hexhamcourant.newsprints.co.uk/