THE 90th anniversary of the famous bombardment of a North-East town is to be remembered in an exhibition.

More than 100 people died as more than 100 shells rained down on Hartlepool for 40 minutes at the beginning of the First World War.

Among the casualties that morning on December 16, 1914 was Theo Jones, the first soldier to die on British soil in the Great War.

The exhibition, which opened at the Museum of Hartlepool on Saturday, features the Bombardment Sketch by James Clark, who went on to be patronised by the Royal Family.

Another highlight is the replica 1908 uniform worn by the soldiers at the Headland's Heugh Battery during the bombardment, and a swagger stick that belonged to the man in charge of the battery at the time, Colonel Robson.

Other activities organised to coincide with the bombardment include a visit by the Heugh Battery historical group to the museum on Sunday, October 17, when they will deliver a talk. There will be two separate talks at 11am and 3pm on the day.

There will also be a bombardment workshop at the museum on Tuesday, October 12, between 4pm and 5pm, and at the Central Library on Wedneday, October 13, from 4pm to 5pm.

Places need to be booked by calling (01429) 523483. The museum can be contacted on (01429) 860077.

Published: 04/10/2004