Camping enthusiasts will mark their group's centenary by going back to its roots.

Members of the Camping and Caravanning Club will celebrate its 100th anniversary by bringing a taste of the great outdoor' to an unusual indoor venue.

Wantage's Vale and Downland Museum, better-known for its collection of ancient and prehistoric artifacts, will host an exhibition on the club's history in May and June. The Church Street-based museum is near the site of the club's first camp, in Ickleton Road, on the edge of the town.

The 1901 camp comprised of just six people - all members of what was then known as the Association of Cycle Campers - who had cycled from London, Bath and Birmingham, with specially devised lightweight kit. Among the six campers was Thomas Hiram Holding, the founder of the club, and a man widely regarded as the father of recreational camping.

The exhibition in the museum's Squire's Room will trace the club's history through documents, photographs and early camping equipment.

Museum curator Richard Halliwell said: "It is fascinating that Wantage was the place where recreational camping started."

The exhibition runs from May 1 to June 3. Entrance will be free.