CHILDREN from schools in the Salisbury area were enthralled by workshops put on by scientists from the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, Porton Down.

As part of National Science Week, the defence scientists visited pupils aged between five and 15 at schools to show the importance and relevance of science and technology in everyday life.

The children had the chance to undertake construction challenges and participated in design-and-build projects, such as making balloon buggies and elastic band rollers, to show how forces and friction affect movement.

They also had a chance to look at defence equipment, including gas masks, which the children at Idmiston Primary School tried on.

Annabel Mead, of Dstl, said: "We are a defence organisation and want to explain to the local community what we are doing at Porton Down, and some of the work we do to protect our troops."

Headteacher at the school Elaine Mattera said: "The children thoroughly enjoyed it.

"It was good for them to meet scientists and was an entertaining way to present science.

"The children were really enthusiastic."

Alison Bridewell, schools liaison officer at Dstl, said: "As an organisation, we want to share our enthusiasm and innovation by investing in the education of science and technology.

"Dstl seeks to work in partnership with the education community to inspire teachers and students by feeding their curiosity and challenging young minds."

Rosie Mayes, headteacher at St Michael's primary school, Figheldean, said: "We think it's fantastic that Dstl scientists have put together this roadshow.

"We are one of the smaller, more remote primary schools in the area, and it's great that Dstl is taking the time to visit, so that our children can also benefit from an interactive approach to science," she said.