A PRIMARY school in Malmesbury held an ‘End of War’ celebration to make the centenary of World War One this week.

St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School held the celebration on Wednesday afternoon (November 7), as children dressed up as people did back in the early 1900's.

The school opened their doors to not only family and friends of those at the school, but to all members of the public, as they welcomed Derek Tilney, Chairman of the British Legion in Malmesbury.

He came and spoke engagingly to some of the children about his direct link with the war, through his father.

The children were said to have been absorbed with his stories as they brought far more reality to this period in history.

PJ O’Brien, one of the pupils parents, addressed the whole school with an incredible presentation all about his grandfather’s involvement in the war, which gave the children a real insight as to how incredibly tough life was as a stretcher bearer in the war!

His grandfather Henry O'Brien served in the 3rd Battalion Royal Fusiliers (London Regiment).

After hearing The Last Post played so hauntingly by Rachel Soper, one of the school's senior teachers, the whole room observed a minute’s silence, for true reflection.

It wasn't however just a time to remember, but also to celebrate, with the whole room joining a sing song, including 'It’s a long way to Tipperary'.

This was followed with war time games of hopscotch, skipping, hula hooping on the playground, whilst the adults enjoyed a good old cuppa and scone and the chance to share stories and thoughts as well as look at the displays.

Ann Wood Acting Headteacher said: "It was so important for us that we were able to honour these and all of those who have suffered as a result of war and conflict.

"We really wanted to make sure that as this is a significant milestone in the history of the war, the children had an even greater understanding of the impact this had on so many people.

"An enormous spread of food was provided for the children who of course thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

"All in all it we had a fantastic time."