A TOWN centre church has marked the centenary of the First World War with an exhibition marking the lives of those who fought in the town.

A focal point of the town's commemorations has been the re-creation of Blighty Clubs, in Warrington town centre and in neighbourhoods across the borough.

This followed research carried out by Culture Warrington, as part of its four-year calendar of events to commemorate the war.

Holy Trinity Church, on Sankey Street in the town centre, has been running its Blighty Club since last Monday October 29 and it has been a huge hit with residents.

Blighty Clubs were established throughout the country at the end of the war, as a place for returning soldiers to meet, play cards, reminisce and enjoy music and impromptu performances.

Warrington’s club was a valuable meeting space for soldiers from the area, and even welcomed George Formby Senior for a special performance.

Open to all, every day, from 10am until 12pm, the church’s stunning interior has been transformed, to take people back to the time of the Great War.

Visitors have enjoyed sing-a-longs, poetry, music performances, talks and more.

Blighty Club boxes were loaned out to the church and various community groups across the borough, containing bunting and memorabilia.

Cllr Dan Price, Warrington Borough Council’s executive board member for culture and partnerships, said: “It’s so important, in this momentous year, that we come together to preserve the memories and heritage of the people who lived through the First World War.

“The recreation of the Blighty Clubs has given people a fascinating insight into what was a real lifeline for soldiers returning from the war.

"The clubs will give everyone the chance to drop in, share memories, tell war stories they may have about family and friends and enjoy music and entertainment.

"In the spirit of the original Blighty Clubs, visitors to the town centre club may even fancy entertaining visitors by playing Holy Trinity’s grand piano.

“And there is so much more happening in Warrington, leading up to Remembrance Sunday, including exhibitions, performances and talks.

"This is a hugely important cultural and heritage project for Warrington, and I’m looking forward to many people getting involved.”

The church has also put on an exhibition marking the lives of those who fought in the war and their families back in Warrington.

These men and women had connections to Holy Trinity Church and current members of the congregation have enjoyed searching through the archives to create a poignant tribute to those who lost their lives in the First World War.