CHRISTCHURCH’S unique contribution to the First World War will be detailed in a new exhibition.

The Red House Museum will open a major exhibition, Soldier’s Journey, on October 11, depicting Christchurch’s involvement in the Great War.

It will include letters sent by soldiers from across the Empire to a local Lymington girl, Dorothy Gale.

It will also look at the work of Brockenhurst Hospital, which received wounded soldiers from New Zealand and India on their return from the front line. Barton on Sea was home to a group of convalescent soldiers who formed a costumed concert troupe which entertained the locals. The work of Eleanor Dent, who was 15 at the start of the war, will also be highlighted.

Along with her mother and neighbour, she helped out at a convalescent home in Burley, looking after Belgian soldiers and refugees. She wrote a journal which gives us an insight into the routines, activities and events that took place.

The exhibition – which has been funded by Arts Council England – will include interactive activities for children as well as an emotive short film with original footage and audio.

It runs until January 10, 2015. Entrance is free.