AS the build-up to Christmas begins in earnest, the real meaning of the festive season can be found at Worcester Cathedral.

The Dean's Chapel is holding an exhibition entitled How far is it to Bethlehem? - Crches from Around the World, which takes place from now through until January 6. 'Crche' comes from the old French meaning 'crib' and the exhibition has more 100 examples of crches from countries all around the world. They show diverse examples of traditional crafts and materials incorporating local traditions of the birth of Jesus. Items range from coins and stamps, Nativities made from a seed or nut, various metals, textiles, wood to modern art canvasses. Nativity representations have appeared in art works since the early 4th Century.

The Very Reverend Peter Marshall, Dean of Worcester, said: "The Nativity is a well-loved sign of iconic power, as it represents to us a fundamental truth about our own humanity - powerful and vulnerable, and part of nature.

"It is a scene where love and loyalty present a way of living for all of us down the ages. This reminds us that in diversity we'll find a true unity."