THOUSANDS are expected to line the streets of Liverpool next week for the return of giant street theatre spectacular Sea Odyssey as part of the city's World War One commemorations.

Memories of August 1914 will be created by street theatre tour de force Royal De Luxe, who captivated crowds of 800,000 people in 2012 with the Giant spectacular Sea Odyssey.

A warm welcome will be given to two familiar faces – the Little Girl Giant and her playful canine companion Xolo – who will be in the city from Wednesday, Wednesday until Sunday, July 27.

The huge marionettes will explore the city as part of a brand new moving and emotional story recollecting a time when Britain was preparing for war.

The event is commissioned jointly by Liverpool City Council and 14-18 NOW, the First World War Centenary Cultural Programme.

Minister for Sport and Tourism Helen Grant, who is co-ordinating the government's commemorations of the centenary, said: "2014 marks the centenary of the outbreak of a war which transformed not only this country, but the world forever.

"There will be events taking place across the country throughout the four years of the anniversary, but Liverpool will without a doubt be home to one of the largest cultural commemorations.

"This is sure to be a truly powerful and memorable piece of street theatre which will shine a spotlight on an incredibly important period in our history."

Ensuring the event runs smoothly is Newton-based firm Speedy, which provides tools, equipment, plant rental and support services, providing the largest range of assets for hire anywhere in the UK.

Martin Hayward, the firm's operations director for the North of England, said: “We are honoured to be supporting such an iconic event, which attracts visitors from around the world and is hailed as the nation’s largest landmark commemorative event for the WW1 centenary.

“The Liverpool Giants is such a unique experience and we are delighted to announce our participation. We’ve been working closely with Liverpool City Council to help welcome back the Giants to the city and to deliver an event which promises to be its best yet.

“As well as a wide range of equipment, we also have extensive experience in providing support services for large scale operations and as events don’t come much bigger than this, we are delighted to be a part of Memories of August 1914.”

Liverpool Council’s assistant Mayor, Councillor Wendy Simon, said: "Memories has really captured the imaginations and hearts of people and they just want to be part of this momentous event.

"This will be a live event so anything can happen, but thanks to the support of the likes of Speedy, we can ensure that everything will run smoothly and safely and the hundreds and thousands of spectators can enjoy an unforgettable show.”