AN MP has joined forces with the Royal British Legion to look at ways of involving the local community in this year's World War One commemorations.

Tom Blenkinsop, who represents Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, met up with the charity's regional organiser to start working on plans to mark the centenary of the Battle of the Somme during an event in Parliament.

Somme 100 provides an opportunity for people to reflect on one of the bloodiest battles in human history, in which more than one million men were wounded or killed.

Marcus Hawthorn, the Legion’s Northern area manager, said: “This event offered a great opportunity to spread the word about the range of services that we provide, and discuss our plans for the centenary commemorations of the Battle of the Somme. It was a pleasure to meet with Tom and I look forward to working with him on Armed Forces issues.”

Mr Blenkinsop added: "Members of the Armed Forces community make huge sacrifices in the service of our country, and I am proud to support the work of the Legion in honouring the memory of the fallen and building a better future for the living.”

Anyone who is interested in learning more about the battle, or how they can get involved with the commemorations, should visit www.britishlegion.org.uk/Somme100