PUPILS were transported back to 1914 as part of a multi-sensory commemoration of the beginning of the First World War.

Military sergeants attempted to enlist new recruits and show them how to march to the backdrop of propaganda and live music.

Wycombe High School pupils were able to walk through the foul-smelling trenches and a field hospital with surgeons operating on the wounded.

And in a poignant tribute, the school’s playing field was converted in to a field of poppies with a cross in place for each of the heroes from High Wycombe who gave their lives during The Great War.

Hilary Brash, Assistant Headteacher, said: “The pupils have been working on this project since the end of their early GCSEs and have devised the entire experience themselves.

“Their creativity, good humour and energy have been matched by their sensitivity and compassion, and the end result was very moving.”

The Trench Experience event was organised by the school’s Year Tens and was attended by RAF Group Captain Frank Clifford.

Pupil Katie Parry said: “It's wonderful our school has gone to so much effort to commemorate the beginning of the Frist World War.

“The project has taught us so much and really highlighted the extent that the soldiers went to, to fight for their countries; my respect for them has substantially intensified.”