THEY were labelled as cowards and deserters before being shot at dawn by their comrades.

The story of one of the traumatic, yet hugely controversial events of the First World War is being retold in the form of a courtroom drama created by a Bournemouth scriptwriter.

John Foster put together the play, called Shot at Dawn, for his theatre company Doppelganger Productions, after looking at the original archives of soldiers who were shot at dawn, including letters sent home to their families, and diaries which were kept during that time.

The original performance was staged in the council chambers at Bournemouth Town Hall and funding has now been secured to take the production on a tour of historic venues across the county, including the Guildhall in Poole on May 4-5.

Project manager Carol Maund says the project is much more widespread than just the performances.

“Heritage Lottery were really interested in generating memories and talking to local kids, so I’ve got drama workshops happening in schools and we are asking the elderly community to get involved by bringing in their stories,” she explained.

John has turned the true events into a drama, but is also keen to draw on local memories of the First World War.

“There is a lot of interest in it because anything historical or based on local history will immediately get people interested,” said Carol.

“Each town that I’ve approached was so excited about it being in their town. We are collating material which will go into an archive for the future of Dorset.”

n For tickets contact Lighthouse, Poole on 01202 280000.