Glimpse into Great War barracks

A newly-restored First World War barracks hut will open to the public this weekend – more than 90 years after it was built. The Cannock Chase Great War Hut is one of the few remaining First World War barracks huts left in the UK.

The special opening ceremony on Sunday will be the culmination of several years of hard work by local enthusiasts to bring the historical landmark back to life. A team of 40 historical re-enactors will be on hand to bring visitors an authentic glimpse into how the hut would have been used.

History buffs will be able to see, hear, touch and smell the past with displays of infantry and cavalry, and period vehicles on show.

A medals expert will also be there on Sunday to help local people research their own family's links to the Great War.

The hut, which has been rebuilt close to the visitor centre at Marquis Drive on Cannock Chase, has been kitted out just like it was in 1916 at the height of the war.

The unique building will act as a Great War Interpretation Centre for school groups and the public.

The project was the brainchild of county councillor John O'Leary, and has been delivered by Staffordshire County Council together with the Friends of Cannock Chase.

Councillor O'Leary said: "The Great War camps on Cannock Chase played such an important role in local, national and international history.

"It's wonderful that we have got the chance to create a window on the past for present and future generations."

June Jukes from the Friends of Cannock Chase said: "Many of our members have been concerned about and interested in this fascinating period of the Chase's history for a long time. So when the opportunity arose to develop the barracks as an interpretation centre, we jumped at the chance."

Councillor O'Leary will open the centre at 2pm.