SCHOOL children of a former pit village today (Friday, September 19) marked the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War by laying individual crosses for each of the soldiers from the community who died in the conflict.

A special service was held at the Methodist Chapel in Thornley, near Peterlee, before a moving ceremony at the village war memorial.

More than 120 children of Thornley Primary School, were joined by Sedgefield MP Phil Wilson, members of British Legion, dignitaries and representatives Thornley Resident's Group and East Durham Homes.

The event was arranged by Thornley Residents’ Group chairman Anny Attey and secretary Marion Brunskill.

School headteacher Jennifer Pearce said: “All the children from Year 1 to 6 walked to Methodist Chapel where we had a short service.

“Each pupil was given a mini revised Bible as a present and walked to the cenotaph where they were given poppy crosses with the 149 names of the fallen soldiers from Thornley.

“The last post was played by Kirsty Mawson of the Trimdon Colliery Band followed by a two-minute silence.

“The pupils played the part brilliantly. They were full of awe at what was really quite a powerful occasion.”

Mrs Attey said: "The children were absolutely brilliant.

"I don't think they have done anything like it before and the school should be so proud at how they conducted themselves.

"We hope the crosses will last in the ground until November, when put more down for those who died in the Second World War."