TALENTED students are set to make their way to a leading national science fair after receiving a financial boost from companies across the county. 

Year nine students from Millom School will head to the finals of this year's Big Bang Fair in March to take part in a major celebration of STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects. 

The North West Evening Mail Charitable Trust has donated £300 to help with travel and accommodation costs for the four-night stay in Birmingham where they will display their work to thousands of people.

Pete Jewell, head of design and technology at Millom School, said: “The pupils would like to thank the NWEM and other local companies for their donations and are looking forward to competing at The Big Bang Final and also Talent 20/30 which they have been shortlisted for”.

Jonathan Lee, managing director of CN Group (Barrow), said: "It's great to see so many young people enjoying success in projects like the Big Bang scheme. 

"It's also encouraging to see as many girls as boys getting excited about science, technology, engineering and maths.

"There are amazing opportunities coming to Cumbria, whether it's in advanced manufacturing, energy, life sciences, logistics and all the support services that all those industries need. 

"It is vital students in our schools and colleges have the chance to gain the skills which will allow them to develop exciting careers in these sectors long into the future. 

"Congratulations to all the students at Millom School, you have done Cumbria proud, and we wish you well in the finals in Birmingham."