Nativity Plays on the Childrens Wards in the 1960s

Harlow Wood Orthopaedic Hospital

By Pauline Marples

It is hard to imagine that these nativity plays took place on the children's ward in Harlow Wood Orthopaedic Hospital, and that the children were all patients.

Just because a child was confined to bed, had a plaster cast on, or a caliper on their leg did not mean they could not take part. It is obvious from the pictures that each child was made to feel important.

The dedication of the teaching and nursing staff is evident from the art work, scenery and costumes.  Hours must have been spent on preparation and the whole event would have been a joy to see.