‘VERY moving’: Young historians paid homage to the fallen on a recent trip to the First World War killing fields.

Mentored by Major Nicholas Haines, pupils from St Ambrose College, who are not much younger than those slaughtered 100 years ago, visited the Island of Ireland Peace Park at Messines in June.

They also took part in the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate, laying a wreath on behalf of all at the Hale Barns college.

The party then conducted their own private act of remembrance at Tyne Cot, laying a wreath emblazoned with the St. Ambrose College badge and spending time in prayer and reflection.

Adam Murray, 12, from Timperley, said: “The Battlefields trip was worthwhile and very moving. It got you thinking about the amount of people involved and the people who sadly lost their lives in the First World War. I learnt a lot about the war during the trip.”

Matthew O’Neill, head of Theology and Religious Education, organised and led the trip.

He said: “The centenary of the Battle of the Somme made this year’s trip particularly poignant.

“The opportunity to visit the sites of blood stained battle helped the boys develop their understanding of these events and their international significance.”

The experience made such an impact that the school have decided to organise an annual tour, alternating between the sites of the First and Second World Wars.

Next May, a school group will visit Dunkirk to see the sites of the Normandy landings and will be open to all boys in years 9 and 10 irrespective of their choice to study GCSE History.