A LIFE-SIZE Nativity scene will greet festive visitors to Wyre Forest's popular Bodenham Arboretum in the run-up to Christmas.

Visitors old and young will be able to follow a new Star Nativity Trail, with "live" animals including a pair of donkeys helping to guide them to the scene.

The life-size figures of Mary, Joseph, kings, shepherds and baby Jesus, aptly set out in a stable, have been created lovingly by the arboretum team, including proprietor James Binnian.

"It's been great fun creating them and we're sure visitors will enjoy what we have done," he said.

The arboretum is also selling home-grown Christmas trees and gifts, while the restaurant will be open daily to serve coffee, lunches and teas.

Entrance to the venue is free during the Christmas season, which runs from Saturday until December 21, 11am to 4pm.