A discovery day at Hitchin Town Hall based on the impact the First World War had on North Herts has been hailed as a huge success this week.

The Comet: The First World War discovery day was held at Hitchin Town Hall.The First World War discovery day was held at Hitchin Town Hall. (Image: Archant)

As part of the Herts at War Roadshow, visitors were invited to bring along their First World War memorabilia and family history items to the site in Brand Street to find out more about them with the help of a team of experts.

There were a series of activities on offer at Tuesday’s event, including badge making and trying on helmets and uniform.

Guests also had the opportunity to meet a drill sergeant and try out their nursing skills with the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry, known as FANY.

Dan Hill, project manager for Herts at War, said: “The story of North Herts during the Great War is an incredibly emotive and important one.

“Hitchin alone lost over 400 sons in the conflict, men that left their Hertfordshire homes, never to return.

“A century on, we’re proud to work with North Herts District Council to re-tell the story in an one-day event and to help others understand more about their own families in the First World War.”

Ros Allwood, cultural services manager at the North Herts Museum, said: “It was a fantastic day, with visitors of all ages.

“Dan Hill brought along some wonderful volunteers from the Herts at War Roadshow, and the museum volunteers also did a great job.

“There is such a wide interest in the First World War, and particularly in the stories of local men and women.

“What surprised me was how fascinated some of the children were in the objects and uniforms.

“They told us that although they were learning about the Great War at school, our event really helped them understand it.”