It is based largely on the collections of Edward Colquhoun and includes stories about the first recruits arriving in Shoreham in the rain, to discover that the supplies had been delayed and how the great collection of tents to house them grew up around Slonk Hill and Buckingham Park.

The soldiers would cross Norfolk Bridge, then go for a swim off Shoreham Beach, which would have kept them clean and healthy. There are views of them drilling – and even boxing under the eagle eyes of George V and Queen Mary.

Eventually, they had trained enough and were sent off to the Front, from which so many failed to return.

The exhibition also includes material from Jim Hoare and Herald Bygones writer Ted Heasman, whose fathers served in World War One. Mr Heasman's father picked up a Turkish hand grenade at Gallipoli in 1915 – and that is on display. There is also a biscuit which has survived the last 90 years, plus various other items which bring the story to life.

The exhibition marks the start of the new season at the Marlipins Museum, in Shoreham High Street. The museum is now open until the end of October, from Tuesday to Saturday.

The event, which runs until May 31, was launched by the Lord Lieutenant of West Sussex, Hugh Wyatt, himself a former member of the Royal Sussex Regiment.

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