THE sights and sounds of Britain during World War I will be brought to life in a special commemorative event in the town centre.

To mark the centenary of the Great War St Helens Council is staging a full day of activities and workshops bringing history to life.

There will be plenty to capture the imagination of adults and children. In what should prove an eye opener for kids will be a taste of school life in the early part of the 20th century as well as period games.

There will also be a brazier casting pewter toy soldiers.

Other elements of wartime Britain will be explored including clothes dyeing, food rationing and bread making.

Visitors will also be able to discover how to grow their own food while and Edwardian policeman will be on duty to talk about law and order and crime and punishment of the time.

Patriotic fervour will be fuelled by and army recruitment stand and an appearance from John Bull. There will also be a stilt walking Biggles and a World War I Punch and Judy show featuring Kaiser Bill and Tommy Gunn.

The event will be held on Saturday, September 6 in Church Square.