A NEW director has been appointed to help develop exciting new opportunities for Catalyst Science Discovery Centre in Widnes.

Jayne Edwards has joined the interactive science centre and museum devoted to chemistry from Cogent Skills.

Chairman of trustees Bryan Davies said: “Jayne has the right experience and background to enable Catalyst to deliver its next phase of development.

“We have some exciting new opportunities ahead and can build on the steady progress achieved over the past few years.

“I look forward to working with Jayne and to continuing the programmes of delivering science education to an even wider audience and engaging more children in the pursuit of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) subjects”.

Catalyst aims to make science exciting and accessible to people of all ages and inform them about science based industries and their role in our lives, past, present and future.

Three interactive galleries have more than 100 different exhibits.

Jayne said: “I’m truly delighted to join the dedicated and passionate team at Catalyst and be involved in the inspiration of a new generation of scientists as well as the preservation of the historical heritage of industry in the area.

“We are entering an exciting new phase for Catalyst, building on solid foundations and reputation, to become a truly inspirational facility for the future.

“What industry doesn’t use, or need STEM skills?

“I urge businesses to get involved in this exciting prospect.”

Catalyst is also delighted to welcome Laura Meadows as a new teaching assistant.

Laura will work alongside Catalyst education manager, Clare Hampson to help develop and deliver the education programme for pupils and the holiday workshops for families.

Various half term activities run until February 24.

Children can try experiments with gas pressure, make their own gases and investigate what a world without air might be like.

Youngsters can watch fascinating gas demonstrations in an interactive show.

Sleepovers in the glass rooftop observatory are available for children belonging to uniformed groups and organisations.

Visit catalyst.org.uk for more details.