A ROMAN soldier told tales of victorious battles and conquests as he travelled through time to visit young historians.

Optio Giauz Flavious Longinus stopped at St Peter's Smithills Dean CE Primary School to bring history alive for them.

Year four children, who have been studying life in Roman times, had the chance to quiz the soldier about his life as a soldier during the empire.

The youngsters were given the opportunity to take part in battle drills and battle formations and learn what it took to become a Roman solider.

Year four teacher Alison Slater said: “Every half-term we have a learning challenge and this time it has been about the Romans.

“We were so pleased that we had a Roman soldier visit school and speak to the children.

“The children were just in awe, his visit really did have the wow factor and brought what they had been learning to life.”

The children asked him everything from what he ate, to how much his and whether he enjoyed life during that era.

He told them about the famous Roman baths and life for ordinary people as well as what reminding the youngsters what his people had done for England.

Miss Slater said: “His visit had such an impact, one child came up to me at the end of the day and said ‘it’s been awesome’.”

After putting children through the drills, Mr Longinus disappeared to join his company with Roman Tours Chester.

Year four pupil Isobel Pursey said: “It was a fantastic day — I loved it and learnt so much.

“It was surprising how heavy the armour was.”

Classmate Ben Cowling, added: “I wish the day could start all over again.

“It was excellent when we took part in the battle drills.”