Record numbers flock to Bethlehem

The largest number of pilgrims in a decade has gathered at the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem; the site, tradition has it, of the birth of Jesus.

Tourists wearing Santa hats posed for pictures while pilgrims thronged to the church for Mass.

Officials say more than a hundred thousand have passed through the West Bank town since Christmas Eve, double the number of last year.

The warm weather, a decline in violence and an localised economic revival have all added to the holiday cheer.

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