PUPILS at Hereford Cathedral School have launched a project to say 'thank you' to the Lost Generation of the First World War who attended their school.

Each of the 425 Old Herefordians who fought in the conflict have been marked with a painted rock that displays their name and a poppy, as part of the project between the school and the Royal British Legion.

The pupils have taken each rock home to be distributed around the county and it is hoped that many will be found by residents and returned to the school in time for the Armistice commemorations on November 11.

Not every rock may make it back to the school, which organisers say will help the children to understand the effects of the war which saw 75 Old Herefordians never return home.

Chris Wright, Junior School Head, said: "We really wanted to ensure that we marked the centenary this year and ensured we remembered those who fought from Herefordshire, and especially those from our school. When we were approached by the Royal British Legion it seemed like an incredible idea and movement to be part of.

“With this ‘Thank You’ project, we hope that the children and indeed our whole school community will come to understand how it must have been for those who waved their loved-ones off to war and waited at home for their return.”

Year 6 pupil Emily Legge said: "I think it is an opportunity for us to pause and to think about all those who served their country - in World War 1 of course, but on many occasions since and even today."

Her classmate Oliver Simmons added: "I think as well, that it is a chance to think about how we might serve others - not necessarily by fighting for our country, but in our everyday lives here at the school, in Hereford and in the wider world too."

Sarah Jones, Community Fundraiser for the Legion, explained: "Everyone has a connection to the First World War, and we all have a reason to say ‘Thank You’ to such an extraordinary generation.

“The First World War left countless legacies that positively impact our lives today, from ground breaking social change and timeless works of art to pioneering innovations. As we come to the end of the First World War Centenary now is the time to come together in our communities and say ‘Thank You.’”