WITH the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War approaching, the county has plenty of activities to mark the anniversary.

Kent played a vital part in both wars – the Second World War began 75 years ago this year and D-Day was 70 years ago.

Among the events planned are a county-wide Plant a Real Poppy Day on June 1, where thousands of people are expected to plant bright red Flanders poppies – also known as corn poppies – so that they flower in time for the anniversary on August 4.

The campaign was the brainchild of the Greenhithe Royal British Legion and seeds are available from the Royal British Legion, B&Qs or lots of garden centres. Got to realpoppy.co.uk

Riverhill Himalayan Gardens near Sevenoaks will join the campaign from July 30 to August 3 by planting a stunning display of poppies in the shape of a poppy on one of the highest points in Kent.

First World War poetry will be exhibited around the gardens and there’s a poetry recital on August 3. Go to riverhillgardens.co.uk

Kent and East Sussex Railway will turn back the clock to wartime Britain at a 1940s weekend on May 17 and 18. Iconic wartime planes, The Hurricane and the Spitfire will take to the skies, singers will perform and there will be plenty of 40s fun, including vehicles, costumes and cookery. Go to kesr.org.uk

An Best of British Open Air Classical concert will be held at Leeds Castle on July 12. Enjoy music from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and a military band, have a picnic and wave a flag as field guns go off and Second World War planes fly before a firework finale. Go to heritage-events.co.uk

Explore the role of Chatham Dockyard and the Navy at Chatham in the First World War at the Valour, Loss and Sacrifice exhibition at No 1 Smithery at The Historic Dockyard from July 26 to November 30.

The Dockyard also hosts a Salute to the ‘40s weekend on September 20 and 21, and commemorative event in September 22 to commemorate 100 years since the sinking of Royal Navy Cruisers Hogue, Cressy and Aboukir.

Go to Visitkent.co.uk/frontlinekent for a more details and a full list of events.