THE horrors of the First World War were brought to life when the Thornaby Needs You exhibition went on display.

People were able to learn all about war in a day packed full of drama performances, readings and activities.

Throughout today (Monday, March 3) the town's library came to life with the sights and sounds of the war where visitors had the opportunity to see what life was like for soldiers in the trenches of the Western Front.

Historical interpreters The Time Bandits performed first-hand accounts of the war when they read extracts of poetry and letters written by the local men and women who contributed to the war and performed dramatic re-enactments of the battles.

Visitors also had the chance to view memorabilia collections from Beamish Museum and the Heugh Battery Museum, handle wartime artefacts and read a range of books about all aspects of the war.

Councillor Ken Dixon, Stockton Borough Council’s cabinet member for arts, leisure and culture, said: “This event helped people from across the Borough find out what the war was like, remember the people who were involved and the sacrifices they made to fight for their country.”