BRANDISHING swords, they tried on helmets and imagined what life was like as a medieval crusader.

Excited children stepped back in time in the ancient ruins of Halton Castle, dating back to 1071.

It's all part of a 12-month pilot scheme to give youngsters a unique cultural experience.

"They can have fun, explore, meet other young people and develop their own identity," said Cllr Allan Massey, board member for children and young people.

Pupils had a go at wattle and daub workshops, medieval pilgrim badge making, designing medieval tiles and playing century old instruments.

Fascinating legends and stories left them spellbound and they had lots of fun dressing up in amazing costumes.

It was all part of a pioneering Gateway to Learning project for 60 children from Halton, Warrington and Cheshire.

Youngsters aged five to 16 from rural schools, as well as groups such as traveller children will visit a host of museums, archives and places of historical interest.

Museum, library and archive staff have teamed up to develop an action packed programme.