As children's performances take place across Essex, one school has three kings with a difference.

Liam, David and Adam Bearder are five-year-old triplets who are playing the three kings in Mistley Norman Primary School's production of the Christmas story.

Sheila Braithwaite, headteacher at the school, said: "All our children in key stage one have a role in our nativity - it's quite an epic production."

She said the triplets took their role seriously, going down the aisle looking like three perfect kings.

The triplets have another reason to look forward to the festive period - December 30 will be their sixth birthday.

  • Don't miss today's Christmas plays special in the Gazette