Live science shows and experiments inspires children at Christchurch Mansion

From live science shows featuring balancing bowling balls and skewing balloons with giant needles, to hands-on chromatography experiments, children were left inspired by a new world of scientific understanding.

The free event took place during British Science Week, a 10-day celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths.

Father-of-two James Wright, who visited with wife Liza, 37, and children Charlie, nine, and Erin, six, said science plays an important role in children’s education.

Mr Wright, 37, of Ipswich, said: “They have had a great time, especially with the practical elements of the event.

“They really enjoy science at school and they actually think there should be more of it taught.

“But I think science helps them gain a new perspective of life and obviously allows them to understand how things work.”

Three live science shows, hosted by Steve Allman and lasting an hour, took place in the Education Room at Christchurch Mansion.

They explored subjects including gravity, osmosis, mind-reading, optical illusions and other science tricks.

Claydon mother Heidi Castell said her children Talyn, 13, Brody, eight, were “mesmerised” during the event.

Mrs Castell, 47, said: “They really enjoyed the trick when he balanced three bowling balls on top of each other and when he skewed a water balloon without it bursting.

“It is usually hard for them to keep still but they were just sat there, gawping. They really enjoyed it.”

Dad Brendan Castell, 44, added: “The show was inspiring and really made the children think.”

The event was organised by Ipswich Borough Council. Meanwhile, dozens of families turned out on Saturday night for the ‘Star Party’, held by the Orwell Astronomical Society, at Holywells Park.

The young stargazers used a range of telescopes to view the night sky, observing Jupiter and the crescent moon.

For other upcoming science events for adults and children, please visit www.ipswich.gov.uk.