SCHOOL pupils went back in time earlier this month in the run up to the centenary of the end of the First World War.

Shipton Bellinger Primary School held a week of learning based on the war, hearing from historians, serving troops and had first-hand experience.

The week started with a talk from local historian Paul Marsh who enthralled the children with the personal history of villagers recorded on the local memorial.

The school then called in the army to build them their own trench, with Corporal Askem and his team from 6 Battalion REME unit constructing a realistic replica which allowed the pupils to learn and use their imagination.

Further support came from 1 Royal Welsh, whose Padre Ben Archibald and Corporal Chris Orton, the drum major, led an assembly on the significance of the Drumhead Service and other army traditions.

Children were also prepared for the front as they were put through their paces during an assault course.

Lance Corporal Davies and troops from the 1 Royal Welsh instructed the pupils.

The week culminated in a period of remembrance and Armistice Day celebrations when ‘It’s a Long Way to Tipperary’ rang out across the village – much like it must have done 100 years ago.