IT’S that time of year again when primary school pupils put their acting skills in the spotlight as they take to the stage for their Christmas plays.

And it was the turn of youngsters in Apple (Year 2), Oak (Year 1) and Rainbow (Reception) classes at St Matthew’s Primary School in Blackmoor on Monday.

They performed The Reluctant Reindeer to their friends and families.

Written by members of staff, it tells the story of poor Rudolph, who doesn’t understand what all the fuss is about at Christmas and why all the other reindeer are in training (with “awesome” zumba dancing), according to the school.

Through re-telling the Nativity story, the elves and Father Christmas help Rudolph to understand.

His nose begins to go red and shiny, and he is ready to pull Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve.