GALLERY: Primary school pupils in Emneth hold a special dedication to remember those killed in First World War

The dedication of two memorial flower beds in Emneth. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant © 2014)

Twenty-seven doves were released at Emneth – one for each man from the village who died in conflict from 1914 to 1918, whose names are all engraved on the memorial in the village cemetery.

The dedication of two memorial flower beds in Emneth. Picture: Ian Burt (Image: Archant © 2014)

A dedication was performed by the Rev Dawn Mason, vicar of St Edmund’s Church, before the church bells were tolled 27 times.

Children have researched the 27 fallen soldiers named on the war memorial and published a book about their stories.

They have also put on an exhibition of photographs and artefacts relating to Emneth in the war and are staging a specially-written play.

Alison Townsend, headteacher at Emneth Primary School, said: “After months of hard work, these two projects are reaching their climax.

“Our children have worked so hard to show the community of Emneth what they have learned about the sacrifices

people made in the First World War and we are very proud of them.

“Our play is going to be very special and we are looking forward to welcoming the Mayor and Mayoress of West Norfolk to our world premiere.”

The school was awarded £9,600 by the Heritage Lottery Fund to help pay for the project.

Mrs Townsend said: “We have been thrilled by the award of this funding. Our First World War project is a wonderful opportunity for our children to learn about the past and the impact of the great events of 100 years ago. They will be applying what they have learnt to tell the story of Emneth’s fallen soldiers in the play they will be performing in the summer. Our project will span the generations and it will be a wonderful thing for Emneth.”