PUPILS at a north Lancashire primary school have had the opportunity to learn about their school's unique World War One connections.

Former students of the University of Chester visited Wilson's Endowed CE School in Over Kellet to help guide them in remembrance.

The Development and Alumni Relations Office at the University has been working hard to ensure that the institution marks the centenary.

Staff and former students have been on a journey of discovery over the last 18 months, about those connected to the University who tragically lost their lives in the Great War.

Their research is specifically acknowledging the sacrifice 77 former students and staff made when they fought and died in the conflict.

Sue Carmichael and John Lord, both members of the University of Chester Alumni Association (UCAA) brought year three and four pupils wooden remembrance crosses to decorate.

The purpose of the visit to Over Kellet was to tell the children about Frederick Bullough, a student at the then Chester College, who was once headteacher of the primary school, before joining the war effort two years later.

He was killed in action, aged 32, in November 1917.

Sue said: “The children were very well behaved, listened attentively to what John was telling them and came up with some excellent questions. They came away knowing how difficult it was in the trenches, men could have been killed at any moment and were worried about their families back home. Hopefully we have laid the foundations for them to undertake further studies of the First World War.”

Head teacher Jo Williams added: “I am delighted that we could share in this special event. The school is blessed with a lengthy history which is cherished by the whole community. Each year pupils lead the village's Remembrance procession, carrying a large wooden poppy.

"This year is particularly poignant as we remember the centenary of the First World War and the personal sacrifice made by one of the school's former head teachers Fred Bullough. It is my hope that our pupils learn from the past to shape a bright future for the generations to come.”