JUST a few hours after he’s baptised at a Swanage church, tiny Rupert will be taking on his first acting role – playing the baby Jesus in his town’s live nativity.

Tomorrow is going to be a big day for the four-and-a-half month-old, and for mum and dad who are set to play Mary and Joseph at the same event.

Proud mum Kate Forbes explained: “Rupert is getting baptised in the morning, we’ll have a family do in the afternoon, then he’s playing baby Jesus at 5pm.

“Obviously, it’s a great honour for him to play baby Jesus. He’s not going to get a bigger part than this.”

Kate, aged 30, and husband Matthew became involved in the live nativity through Swanage’s All Saints Church.

“Every year the church has held this live nativity at Godlingston Manor Farm, which is just around the corner,” said Kate. “There are all live characters and animals, and it is set in a barn.”

The Forbes have been taking Rupert to All Saints Church’s ‘Breakfast @ 9’ service since he was four weeks old.

Kate, assistant head teacher at Bournemouth’s Bourne Academy school, said: “He’s the smallest baby in the congregation and obviously gets some attention. That is how we ended up getting involved in the nativity.

“I played a Christmas tree once at school, but neither me nor Matt ever got the big parts – so secretly I think we’re both a bit pleased to be playing Mary and Joseph.

“It will be interesting when I have to lead the donkey out though,” she joked.

Mum says Rupert should have no problem bonding with his animal co-stars on the night. “He’s growing up with a Springer Spaniel, so he’s absolutely fine with animals around him.”

n The live Christmas Nativity and Christingle event takes place at Godlingston Manor Farm, Washpond Lane, Swanage, from 5pm tomorrow.

There will be carols, mulled wine and mince pies. Everyone is invited, but wrap up warm and wear wellies if you have them.