AN ornate Huddersfield Nativity scene is to feature in a popular TV programme.
The traditional Polish szopka will appear on BBC’s Songs of Praise this Christmas.
It was commissioned by Kirklees Council in 2001 and created by Polish families in Huddersfield. It is usually on display at the Tolson Museum in Ravensknowle Park, Moldgreen.
But this festive season the 5ft-high crib will be in an exhibition at Wakefield Cathedral.
And the makers of Songs of Praise have filmed a piece about the crib.
Kirklees Council Kirklees spokeswoman Kim Strickson said: “They filmed the szopka in the Polish Church in Fitzwilliam Street on November 3.
“It was a little strange because we had to put up a tree to make the church look more festive but it’s great that the szopka will feature on Songs of Praise.”
Szopki originate in the Polish city of Krakow and blend the traditional Nativity with contemporary scenes.
Ms Strickson added: “In Poland you sometimes find sports stars or politicians depicted.
“Our szopka has Huddersfield features, including Castle Hill, in the background.”
