Young people from Malmesbury School met Sir James Dyson at his headquarters in Malmesbury for a showcase of inventions, including car technology to cut traffic congestion.

The students were among a select audience, along with PHD students, to discuss ground-breaking new technology designs put forward by the Bath, Bristol and Cambridge undergraduates.

Students from Malmesbury School were invited to talk to the inventors and to gain a better understanding of new technology being developed. Among the inventions were skis that can adapt to different terrains with the touch of a button and technology for cars to make them interact with each other to cut congestion.

The Dyson Foundation awards thousands of pounds to universities around the UK for undergraduates and postgraduates.

The programme also supports three students at Malmesbury School in their final year, with each receiving £1,000 towards their A-level studies in design and technology.

The scheme also supports one student a year by paying for their university fees in full for four years (up to £32,000) to support studying science, technology, engineering or mathematics, or a related degree.

A Dyson spokesman said: “Engineering isn’t about greasy overalls, oily rags and metal wrenches – it’s about problem-solvers developing new technologies.

"We must inspire young engineers about invention if we are to overcome the chronic engineering deficit in the UK.

"It all starts at the roots, through design workshops and the use of industry relevant resources in schools, up to postgraduate level with generous bursaries and scholarships that incentivise Britain’s smartest to study.”