Close encounters with unusual creatures at Moray event

MORAY Science Festival opened yesterday with a chance for schoolchildren to meet some unusual creatures.

Giant snails, a tarantula named Rosie, a carpet python and a bearded dragon were some of the animals shown to pupils from four schools during the event at Moray College.

The science festival runs until Saturday and includes a number of practical workshops and demonstrations.

A wide variety of scientific topics are being covered at the event, including the effect of illegal drugs on users, how the human digestive system works and the role of micro-organisms in food.

There will also be the chance to see exploding custard, understand how people manage in countries with no access to fresh water and find out how ecosystems and bio-diversity work.

Dawn Thomson, principal teacher at Portgordon Primary School, took along P6 and P7 pupils yesterday and said they thoroughly enjoyed the visit. The youngsters took part in various experiments and also looked at the bone structures of different animals.

A family day is being held on Saturday from 10am to 4pm, and family tickets are £20. Telephone Moira Currie, festival director, on 01343 576266, to make a booking.