If you think about it, the best Christmas stories are invariably about making the best of a bad situation.

The Nativity, It's A Wonderful Life, Home Alone, even Die Hard - all are tales of triumph against the odds.

And the same can be said of the Parish of Cowbridge's decision to take their famous Christmas Eve Crib Service online in order to comply with social distancing restrictions.

"Christmas Eve crib service is one of the most popular services in the Benefice," Hilary Wickett, a local Christian organiser, tells Nub News.

"At 4pm Christmas Eve, there's normally no more shopping to do, or parcels to nervously wait for. As the daylight fades, we come together amidst the Christmas trees, sing carols, light candles and see the nativity. Often it's standing room only and a real sense of community.

"This years restrictions creates an opportunity to make a youtube version that we can enjoy from the comfort of our sofas. You'll see familiar people in local locations acting out the nativity, recorded on mobiles."

The performance will be streamed live on the Parish's YouTube channel at 4PM on Christmas Eve.

Hilary says it is particularly important to find a sense of normality and solidarity at the end of this difficult year.

"It's been a real collaborative project with people of all ages, from Churches across the Benefice getting involved. There are sing-a-long carols where the trumpets, violins and singers were recorded in separate homes and then stitched together.

"We believe the message of Jesus coming to bring light into our dark world feels particularly relevant right now. Our hope is that on youtube, it can be enjoyed by more people than ever before.

"Don't worry if you miss it, it will be available for the 12 days of Christmas afterwards."