WARTIME food, entertainment and memories were shared and enjoyed at the official opening of Bishampton's poppy parade.

Trench cake, potato cake and fadge, all traditional First World War foods, were sampled on the day as people explored the research being undertaken on the Great War.

Throughout the afternoon, free poppy seeds were also handed out for people to plant and organisers now hope pockets of red will appear in the village this summer to mark the centenary of the First World War.

Those attending also met the village mascot Bertie and Pershore mayor and mayoress, councillor Tony Rowley and wife Debbie.

Children also enjoyed the day as they were able to enlist in the army, have a go at drilling with Private Paul Harding, see how wounded soldiers were cared for by nurse Helen Lee, and make poppies and Bertie.

The village event was part of the project, The First World War and its impact on a rural Worcestershire Village, being carried out by the Bishampton historical society, which took its inspiration from the restoration of the war memorial.

Lesley Miller, from the historical society, said it was a great day.

"It absolutely exceeded our expectations," she said. "We got loads of visitors, including a party from Willow Grange Residential Home. They all lapped it up, we had a film running on continuous loop and they were there watching that.

"We had First World War cakes, which were alright, and normal refreshments and entertainment.

"We distributed the poppy seeds as well so hopefully we should get some pods of red in June when they are sprout.

"We were absolutely thrilled."