Pupils from years 8, 9 and 10 at Trinity School, took part in the production, that was presented as a contemporary warfare drama.

The school hired 30 guns from a professional gun hire company to create a more exciting production.

Andrew Godfrey, head of drama productions, said: “The boys have really got into the action- packed style of the play and offered a tremendously fresh interpretation of Shakespeare’s masterpiece.”

Year 10 pupil James Rodker, who played Henry V, said: “I think it’s been interesting to set the play in modern times, but still keep the original language.

“I’ve been very excited to take on the lead role. Although I’ve found learning the lines a lot of work, it’s definitely been worth it.”

Mr Godfrey said: “For the props we hired 30 guns, pistols and machines guns, from a long-established firm called Baptys who are well-known suppliers to the film and TV industry.

“I also made 40 gas masks and we borrowed army camouflage uniforms from the CCF (Combined Cadet Force).

“I chose to set the production in the 21st century because the themes in Henry V are so relevant to a contemporary audience.

“I went for a very stylised production to highlight the horrors of war.”