A POWERFUL play about the Battle of the Somme has been performed by students at Horsforth School.

The Pals, written by French teacher James Bovington, tells the story of young soldiers from Leeds who lost their lives during the opening minutes of the battle on July 1, 1916.

Year ten student Ethan Wright played the role of Walter Roberts in the play – a trainee insurance clerk who, with his twin brother, ran away to join the Leeds Pals and was killed in the conflict.

Mr Bovington said: "Ethan’s character, Walter, represents the youth of 1916, who gave their lives in our country’s service that beautiful, but fateful, July morning.

"Ethan than has a strong presence on stage, which included performing a breathtaking representation of the young First World War soldier as a modern parallel of the crucified Christ figure, in the challenging dive scene.

"He took it all in his stride while making the symbolism clear. He’s literally thrown himself into this project – the play, fundraising and frequently attending publicity events in uniform.

"We are really proud of him."

Ethan added: "This was my first experience of acting and I enjoyed developing my character, Walter, who was quite like me really – a cheeky young lad with all his future before him, but who met a terrible fate.

"Some of it was quite difficult, such as my dive scene, but I’m glad we’ve been able to let people know more about the Pals.

"We are now going to the battlefields to learn more about the soldiers of the Somme, and my friends and I will be laying wreaths at various ceremonies in their honour.

"I'm proud to have been involved in all these activities."

Ethan's efforts were officially recognised by the school last week when he was presented with the Contribution to School Life award.