People with family links to the First World War are being encouraged to share their stories for a chance to visit the battlefields of Northern France and Belgium.

Dartford council and Dartford’s Kent County Council members have secured funding for a limited number of places on a two- day trip to the battlefields in June.

The trip will offer the chance to visit sites of significance such as the Thiepval Memorial in the Somme and Tyne Cot Cemetery in Ypres.

This year is the 100th anniversary of the start of the Great War and events to mark the date are taking place.

Many stories are being uncovered which record heroic tales of ordinary every day folk who did their bit for their country.

Dartford council wanted to do something for those who live in the borough, and give them the opportunity to re-tell some of those tales and see just where the battles were fought.

Dartford council leader Jeremy Kite said: “We’re pleased to be able to offer this trip to residents as part of our First World War commemoration events.

“I know there are a lot of people in the area whose family members fought in the Great War and they will want to make this interesting and potentially emotional commemorative journey.”

The trip will be fully-funded and includes an overnight stay. It is open to Dartford residents –along with a carer or companion if necessary.

To express an interest, email your story and contact details to theleader@dartford.gov.uk and dartfordmessenger@thekmgroup.co.uk.

Places on the trip are limited. In the event of over-subscription an independent panel will allocate places.