CHILDREN were challenged to copy the Mersey Gateway and build their own 13 metre long cable-stayed bridge.

Excited youngsters put on hard hats and high visibility jackets at the Catalyst Science Discovery Centre.

Some 29 primary school pupils from Widnes Academy in West Bank spent all morning constructing their crossing.

It was part of a project to give youngsters a taste of civil engineering.

Their skills were put to the test as The Mayor of Halton Cllr Ellen Cargill took off her shoes and walked across their construction.

David Rowlinson of the Institution of Civil Engineers north west said: “We need thousands more civil engineer to help build the infrastructure of tomorrow.

“From bridges like Mersey Gateway to railways, tramways, cycleways, bus stations, power stations, flood defences and sewers.

“Civil engineering can be a fascinating career. I hope some of these youngsters will think about pursuing it.”

The event launched the bridges to school project which aims to teach children about civil engineering skills and principles and working as a team.

Karen Highcock, principal of Widnes Academy, said: “It’s important to us that we provide our pupil with hand-on experiences like this as well as helping them to meet high academic standards for the challenging careers they can aspire to.

“Our children make us proud every day but watching them build a cable-stay bridge reminds us that they can achieve anything.”

The Mayor of Halton Cllr Ellen Cargill, who launched the bridge, said: “Young people today are the civil engineers of tomorrow.

“With Halton being such a vibrant, innovative borough, we hope they are inspired to work in the area when they attain the valuable skills we need.”

Schools can now book bridge building sessions at Catalyst Science Discovery Centre on 0151 420 1121.