Soldiers, dignitaries and residents gathered in the woods near Marlow yesterday to commemorate the area’s vital role in preparing British troops for the First World War exactly 100 years ago.

A series of ‘training trenches’ were dug in Pullingshill Wood, Marlow Common in 1915 to recreate the terrain of the battlefields of continental Europe.

And to mark a century since the trenches were contructed, Grenadier Guards – whose predecessors trained at the spot – joined the Marlow community for a special ceremony.

As well as a guided tour of the area, a church service was held to honour the men who never returned from battle.

The centenary event was jointly organised by the Woodland Trust and the Marlow Remembers World War One Association.

Michael Hyde, one of the organisers, said: “We set out to honour the troops that came here especially those who gave the ultimate sacrifice; which we did.

“The fact that some of their descendants in the form of current members of the Grenadier Guards were present, for whom we thank their commanding officer and the guards themselves, was a real boost.

“We were also able to enlighten many visitors some who came great distances about the trenches and how they could be interpreted.

“The obvious pleasure that children and adults gained from the day was reward enough for the Woodland Trust and the Association members who worked hard over many months to plan the event and for the numerous helpers, marshals and display organisers on the day.”

Guests included the lord lieutenant of Buckinghamshire, Sir Henry Aubrey Fletcher, Marlow mayor Bob Johnson, representatives of Wycombe District Council and a number of councillors from surrounding parish councils.

Cllr Johnson said the ceremonial days was “excellently presented”.

John Bustin of All Saints Church led the church service and prayers, with a reading from the lord lieutenant.

Marlow Free Press columnist Michael Eagleton curated a collection of photographs from the war, and collectors exhibited wartime weapons and uniforms at the spot.