While lack of accommodation was an issue for Mary and Joseph over 2,000 years ago, couples with the same names should not have a problem finding somewhere to stay this festive season.
Hotel firm Travelodge is offering couples called Mary and Joseph a free night's accommodation at any of its 322 facilities across the UK.
Operations director for the company Jason Cotta comments: "The phrase 'no room at the inn' is something that resonates with us in the hotel business. Therefore this year we have decided to evoke the true spirit of Christmas and invite Mary and Joseph as our guests."
Couples wishing to take part in the offer, which runs from Christmas Eve to Twelfth Night, need to register their details with Travelodge and will be asked to prove their identities.
The firm recently launched the "Cuddillow", a pillow designed for lone travellers who find it hard to sleep on their own.
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