Primary school pupils to re-enact famous day in Devon’s history

Sixty-four nine-year-olds from Year 5 at Broadclyst Community Primary School (BCPS) will be taking on the challenge of re-enacting a famous day in Devon’s history when they perform It’s our land in the house and grounds at National Trust Killerton on 16 and 17 June.

The youngsters will recreate the momentous day in 1925 when 20,000 people packed the parklands at Killerton to hear liberal politician and statesman Lloyd George deliver his powerful Land Reform speech to the people of Devon.

This eagerly-anticipated speech took place at a time between the wars when landowners, farm workers and local people had different perceptions on how the land in Britain should be used.

The performance will show the activities that took place in and around Killerton mansion in preparation for Lloyd George’s arrival.

The exact spot where the speech was delivered is still accessible to the public. The action will take place in various locations inside the house and outside in the grounds, finishing with a re-creation of the speech in the dramatic location at the front of the house.

National Trust staff and volunteers who are supporting the project have been impressed with the work so far: “It was the first time I heard about Lloyd George at Killerton. The children made the history so alive and also explained a possibly complicated piece of social history very well.  I am really looking forward to seeing the performance!’ said Rose Gander,  National Trust volunteer.”

Performances will take place at 1.30pm and 4pm on both days.  There is no charge for the performance, but National Trust admission charges apply for entry to the grounds.

Crispins of Bradninch have very kindly lent a vintage car, free of charge, to add authenticity and drama to the performances.