Battle shields were drawn on a north Norfolk beach this morning by youngsters during a Roman re-enactment.

Children from Northrepps Primary School walked to Overstrand beach about 40 minutes away with home-made shields before the mini 'conflict'.

The 14 youngsters aged between seven and 11 were pretending to be Roman legionaries who invaded the Norfolk coast in AD 47 and fought against the Celtic Iceni tribe.

Iceni warriors were played by children in the reception class aged between four and seven.

Headteacher Angie Hamilton said: 'We knew the Romans had invaded our shores and we wanted to re-enact it. The weather was perfect for it.'

The idea was developed by teacher Kathryn Leigh and the children have been learning about the Romans since September. The theme has been incorporated into different subjects.

As well as making the large shields with original Roman designs, the pupils learned and wrote about Roman life, and looked at mosaic patterns in maths.

Mrs Hamilton added: 'The children were so full of enthusiasm. It was a long walk to the beach and the children were keen to try their shields in different formations. They could see and feel what it was like to be behind the shields.

'They were really keen. They did a good battle scene on the beach.'

After the battle the pupils looked around the beach and cliffs and inspected maps of the area.

Mrs Hamilton said the school uses Overstrand beach for different classes but it was the first time the youngsters had re-enacted a Roman battle scene.

As part of the topic the children visited the Norwich Castle Museum.

After the Romans conquered Britain in AD 43, forts and roads were constructed around Norfolk as the Roman army became established.

In AD 47 the Iceni revolted against the Romans and again in AD 60, led by Boudica.