THE impact of the First World War on communities across the North-East will be explored at a special event next week.

The free event is aimed at community groups and organisations working on projects connected to the First World War, or who are interested in developing such a project.

It will be held in the Lindisfarne Room, Kings Road Centre, Newcastle University, from 10am to 4pm on Thursday, September 10.

The event will explore a wide variety of issues relating to life during the war, such as how the role of women changed, the impact on industry and the experience of colonial troops.

There will be opportunities to share experiences, explore sources of funding for community projects, exchange ideas, and learn about the support and resources available. It will also offer an opportunity to learn how to digitise, record and preserve stories and memorabilia online.

Speakers at the event will include university researchers, archivists and representatives from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Dr Emma Short, Research Associate at Newcastle University, said: “This event will help people to rediscover the forgotten First World War heritage in our communities by helping them understand how to get started with their research - everything from where to find information, to what funding is available to help, to showcasing research online.”

The event is one of three taking place around the country as part of a programme funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) to mark the centenary of the First World War.

Places are limited so so booking is recommended by emailing fww@ncl.ac.uk.

For more information about the World War One engagement centres visit http://ww1engage.org.uk