Trench attraction at castle

The turmoil and tragedy of life in the World War One trenches has been replicated at Powis Castle as part of centenary events.

July's anniversary of the Battle of the Somme is being marked at Powis Castle with the basement now turned into a replica trench. It will aim to give a flavour of a frontline soldier's life.

Central will be the story of Percy, the fourth Earl of Powis' son, who died in the battle.

An exhibition, which includes battlefield objects, old newsreel and food packaging, runs until September.

Visitors are being invited to step into the trenches and experience life in the Somme as part of its First World War commemorations.

The cellars at the house have been transformed into a recreation of a Somme trench and officer’s dugout as part of its exploration of the story of Percy Robert Herbert, Viscount Clive, the 4th Earl of Powis’ eldest son, who fought in the war.

Visitors are able to wander through passages made of sandbags, corrugated metal sheets and wooden supports, with period items scattered throughout as if the soldiers are still making use of the trenches.

As they explore, Percy’s story is being brought to life through the screening of archive films and a display of wartime objects around the cellars.

Further events surrounding the anniversary of the Battle of the Somme are planned for later in the year.

The castle is open from 11am to 4pm daily. Admission costs from £6.18 adults and £3.09 children with admission to the cellar trenches included in the ticket price.