Now pay attention ...

Historical re-enactor Richard Gardiner makes his point to Joe Cross, 14, yesterday as pupils at Bootham School, York, got a taste of what life would have been like in the trenches during the First World War.

Richard Gardiner provided an account of the grim reality of serving on the front line during the conflict more than 90 years ago.

The workshop was based on the experiences of his great uncle, Thomas Edward Bebbington, who served with the King's Liverpool Regiment.

Mr Gardiner said: "All of the characters mentioned were real people who were caught up in momentous times and the show hopes to portray these people as vibrant and alive."

Bootham School's head of history, Elizabeth McCulloch, added: "As a Quaker School, our students take a keen interest in the way conflicts can be resolved.

"This was a good opportunity to increase our understanding of the First World War and the way lives were affected."

Picture: Bruce Rollinson.