Ten thousand crosses have gone on display as part of a Wall of Remembrance to mark the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War and commemorate the soldiers who died.

The crosses, which have been individually decorated by school children from around the county, each bear the name of one of the ten thousand men from Wiltshire who lost their lives.

The exhibition was unveiled on Monday at St Peter’s Church, Marlborough, where it will remain until September 12 before touring the county.

Visitors at the tribute expressed how moving they found the display.

Arthur Broom said: “I do find it quite upsetting when you see all the crosses. You realise the cost to the village communities. But I think it’s a necessary idea because it is important for future generations. These things slip away but we mustn’t forget.”

Joyce Eastland said: “It is very touching to see all those who gave their lives for freedom and we still have wars, but they did not die in vain and it is important they are remembered.”

And Pat Blaker said: “It looks fantastic and it means a lot, it puts everything into perspective and it’s nice to see children are taking part too.”

Wiltshire Council leader Jane Scott said: “The Wall of Remembrance is an extremely poignant reminder of how many people sacrificed their life during the First World War. I think it’s important that as many people as possible across the county will have the opportunity to see the display and pay their respects.

“I would also like to thank the schoolchildren again for all their hard work in helping us put the wall together.”

The wall will go on display at venues in locations including Devizes, Salisbury, Melksham, Chippenham, Trowbridge and Bradford on Avon over the coming months.