JOURNALS belonging to one of the most influential figures of the First World War are to go on display for the first time next month.

To mark the centenary of the conflict, the Earl of Derby's personal war archive will be revealed in a special exhibition at Knowsley Hall.

For just a week, members of the public can look at the private scrapbooks of Edward George Villiers Stanley - the 17th Earl of Derby - during the Great War.

Dr Stephen Lloyd, curator of the Derby collection, said: “This centenary of the Great War gives us all the opportunity to remember the sacrifices made, and remember the part that the Earl of Derby played during this time.

"It is a one-off opportunity to see the private archive collection of one of the war’s pivotal figures."

The Earl, known as the ‘King of Lancashire’ during his lifetime from 1865 to 1948, played a key role in the four-year conflict.

At the outbreak of war in 1914, he organised one of the most successful recruitment campaigns in the country in Liverpool, signing up 1,500 Liverpudlians to Kitchener’s Army.

Then, in 1916, he was appointed Secretary of State for War by Prime Minister David Lloyd George. Two years later he was made ambassador to France, where he was present for the drafting of the Treaty of Versailles, which officially ended the war with Germany.

Many key moments in the history of World War One will be explored in the exhibition at the hall during its annual open week on October 1 and 2 and from October 6 to 8.

Drawing on the legacy of Lord Derby, an exhibition of portraiture, photography and accompanying works at the stately home will also tell the story of the Earl’s distinguished life in sport.

Named as the most influential figure in 20th Century horse racing by the Racing Post, the Earl was a three-time winner of the classic race named after his ancestor.

Dr Lloyd added: “The doors to Knowsley Hall are only open for one week every year, and with so much interest in the First World War this unique collection will reveal a different side to the conflict. It is not to be missed. It is a rare chance to see inside the hall's grand doors and view the State rooms.

"Knowsley Hall dates from 1500 and is one of Merseyside’s few stately homes and one of the North West’s hidden treasures."

Tickets, priced £12, can be booked in advance via knowsleyhallvenue.co.uk.

For more information or ticket enquiries, contact events@knowsley.com.