YOUNG scientists of the future were being inspired last week by an expert in the field.

Dr Fiona Rayment OBE, the National Nuclear Laboratory’s chief science and technology officer, spent time with children from the West Lakes Multi Academy Trust from Arlecdon, Dearham, Flimby and Thornhill primary schools.

The visit was especially relevant since it followed from the climate change conference in Glasgow, COP26.

Children learned how nuclear technology could play an important part as governments across the globe urgently look into solutions for the climate crisis.

The children learned about Cumbria's "long, proud nuclear heritage".

NNL, the UK’s national laboratory for nuclear fission, has 600 employees in the region who work across three world-leading laboratories to drive innovations in clean energy and help ensure the UK can reach its net zero goals on time and affordably.

"In order to retain these unparalleled skills and experience, we need to be sparking thoughts, ideas and conversations around nuclear science and technology amongst our young people," Dr Rayment said.

She and colleague Dr Rob Whittleston spoke to more than 100 Year 6 pupils about nuclear energy and how it is helping to transform both the environment and people’s lives.

Dr Rayment said: "When I was around the children’s age in the 1970s, I remember having to do my homework by candlelight because the power cuts at the time meant we didn’t have electricity at home. . It was because of that that I became interested in energy and went on to study nuclear science.

"In recent months, the UK has experienced contemporary difficulties with its energy supply. I’m sure this will have encouraged many of our young people to think, as I once did, about what they can do to help."