“I HAVE uncovered deeply personal and unique accounts of how warfare has affected the lives of ordinary people over the past 100 years.”

Writer David Haworth examines the personal side of last century’s globe changing conflicts in his new play showing at Lighthouse, Poole’s Centre for the Arts this week.

With the 100th anniversary of the Great War approaching fast, Haworth’s double-bill explores how the lives of a generation were shaped.

The project came together as a result of a series of research events across Hampshire which uncovered unique local stories.

Howarth says: “It has been an incredible eye-opener for me as I feel I have been allowed into a secret world.

“Everywhere I have looked I have found stories of bravery and honour, and of stoicism in the face of challenge.”

The result, which will be performed by theatre company Forest Forge, is a double-bill examining both the First and Second World War’s, as well as modern warfare.

The first play – The Call Up – is set in a sleepy Hampshire village that witnesses the might of the British Expeditionary Force during World War One, as they march proudly through the streets on their way to war.

The play follows the story of the Hampshire men who then excitedly volunteer and the emotional impact on them and the families they leave behind.

The second play – Keep Smiling Through – draws on reminiscences from people all over Hampshire and explores the highs and lows of the evacuee experience during the Second World War.

Three children experience the war as evacuees deep in the heart of Hampshire and their story is told through traditional game playing.

Haworth says he wanted the play to strike at the emotional core of stories that have shaped and continue to shape history.

He adds: “These plays are the result of real people being honest about their experiences, their memories and their history. Hopefully it is the uncrushable human spirit that shines through them all.”