A unique exhibition of Christmas nativity cribs belonging to author and broadcaster Libby Purves and her TV presenter husband Paul Heiney will go on display in Ely Cathedral.

Ely Standard: Libby PurvesLibby Purves (Image: Archant)

The couple’s collection of 120 cribs from 40 countries has been collected by the couple over the last 35 years.

Libby said: “We hope that while the crib collection is in Ely, it will provide a chance for visitors to see how the Christian nativity is celebrated throughout the world, and make us all think about our understanding of the Christmas message. It is a fascinating display and well worth visiting.”

In addition, several primary schools have been invited to take part in a crib making competition, and their entries will also be on display.

The winning crib will be announced by Libby Purves at the official exhibition opening on Wednesday December 4, and will become part of the collection.

The Cribs of the World display will be in the cathedral’s south-west transept, and is open to the public daily from December 5-11 between 10am-4pm, and from 12noon-4pm on Sunday December 8. Admission to the exhibition is free, and there will be a collection for The Children’s Society.