Pupils at St Faith's Primary School took a trip back in time to experience life as an evacuee during the Second World War.

Barn Owls class – year-three and four children at the Horsham St Faith school – all dressed up in 1940s clothes for a trip on the Poppy Line steam train between Sheringham Park and Kelling Heath in Holt.

They were met by Mrs Roach, the billeting officer, and Air Raid Precaution Warden Storey, who carried out an inspection of their hair and nails before being marched to the Holt Institute to be chosen by their families.

They were soon put to work cleaning out Railway Cottage and doing gardening as well as learning about air raid precautions (ARP) and trying on gas masks.

Lunch was made by the children from rations although some sandwiches included Spam, corned beef, cheese and jam!

The day then finished with a drill and the lowering of the flag.

Class teacher, Mrs Milbourne, said: 'It was a wonderful experience for the children and brought to life what we have been learning about in school.'

Many children were evacuated to Norfolk, mainly from London, during both world wars because there were far loss bombing targets in the county and more rural areas to house people safely.

The chance to get some first-hand experience of what it would have been like for children of their grandparents' generation was a real thrill for the children, and they enjoyed getting dressed up as well.

'It was a really exciting day,' said Dylan Davy, 'My favourite bit was travelling on a real steam train.'

Amber-Lily Wright said: 'I really enjoyed the day and would like to do it again,' and Hayden Carey added: 'Trying on the gas masks was cool, but I wouldn't want to wear it for a very long time.'

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