THE rich history of St Catherine’s Hill in Christchurch will be celebrated at a special event on Sunday.

The History on the Hill event has been planned for all ages and includes a wide variety of activities.

There will be many experts on hand to answer historical or archaeological questions at the all-day event, organised by the Friends of St Catherine’s Hill.

Children will be well catered for with chances to have a go at bread making or making their own clay or brick beaker.

There will also be the opportunity to help build a small cob house from clay, sand or straw and to take part in a fun excavation.

Walkers will enjoy a brisk guided history walk at 11am but numbers are limited to advance booking is recommended by calling 01425 272479.

The walk is not suitable for those under the age of 12.

An underground bunker on the top of the hill, previously occupied by the Royal Observer Corps, will be the scene of demonstrations of World War Two and Cold War equipment and Corps members will explain what their role was at the site and how they used the UK network of bunkers.

A number of local organisations are backing the event, which takes place from 10.30am until 4pm, including the Christchurch Antiquarians, Bournemouth Natural Science Society, the Urban Heaths Partnership, Hampshire Museums Service and the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation Trust.

Christchurch Gun Club will also demonstrate period weapons at their nearby club from 1.30pm. Access to the site is via the junction of Marlow Drive and Hillside Drive or St Catherine’s Hill Lane. All are welcome.