Crime scene sleuths put forensic skills to test

PUBLISHED: 16:06 22 July 2019 | UPDATED: 16:06 22 July 2019

The top three contestants from the regional heat were Melissa Abbott (right) and joint runners-up Charli-Jai Keegan (left) and Bailey Dedman (centre) Picture: HARRY SMY

Harry Smy

Harry Smy (left), of Suffolk New College, and Gary Howard, from Complete Forensics, helped oversee the heat Picture: JOHN NICE

Students took part in one of five legs of the WorldSkills Forensic Science challenge at Suffolk New College, with the top eight vying to be forensic science student of the year at the NEC in November.

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After being tested on crime scene investigation skills, evidence analysis, continuity and integrity, Melissa Abbott came first ahead of joint runners-up Charli-Jai Keegan and Bailey Dedman.

She said: "It was a useful experience and I really hope to go to the national finals."

Gary Howard, of education non-profit Complete Forensics, said numerous jobs awaited graduates in the armed forces, police, border agencies, intelligence service and other organisations.

Head of access to higher education and science, Harry Smy said the regional heat allowed students to gain time management, organisational and communication skills in a pressurised environment.