HANDMADE cribs have appeared in businesses across York and North Yorkshire, to remind busy Christmas shoppers of the real meaning of the season.

The cribs - made out of shoeboxes - are the handiwork of children from eight schools in York - and all 30 were blessed at a special service at All Saints' Pavement on Friday, before being taken in their new homes in shops and businesses.

Rev Derek Earis said: “We’re delighted that so many schools and businesses have come together to help people remember the real meaning of Christmas. Eight schools have made thirty cribs for twenty shops and businesses in town, with scenes showing the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s such a simple and lovely way to remember that Christmas celebrates God’s love for us.”

One of the schools taking part is Heworth Primary, and headteacher Simon Biddlestone said: "The children have enjoyed making the cribs, and they’re looking lovely. We have five classes at school, and each class has made a crib scene in a shoebox to give to a shop in York.

"It’s very easy, amongst all the presents and excitement, to forget the real meaning of Christmas. We hope that these cribs, our presents to shoppers in York, will remind them of the most important part of our celebrations.”

Sheila Riley's shop Sahara on Swinegate will be displaying one of the cribs. She added: “When the church contacted us and asked us if we wanted to take part, we thought it was a brilliant idea! We’re a family owned business and we’re delighted to support our local schools and help put York on the map.”