CHILDREN have been given special lessons to find the next generation of civil engineers.

Bridge builder Merseylink has been offering the sessions to inspire youngsters to consider a career in construction.

Mersey Gateway volunteers visited Lunt's Heath Primary School in Widnes to see presentations on the new bridge.

Teacher Jill Irlam said her pupils had been inspired and excited about using Lego to explore the design of the iconic crossing as part of a six-week course.

She said: “They have absolutely loved this project.

"Their work has involved them looking at all aspects of the Mersey Gateway bridge as well as learning about different types of bridges, and how they are built.

“The volunteers, many of them former engineers themselves, have given the children a great insight into what it is like to be an engineer.

“It has been very positive.”

The children have learnt what civil engineering is, how structures are built and what makes a well-built bridge.

Pupils then put their knowledge to the test by using Lego to explore different ways of building bridges.

Karen Nicholson, Merseylink’s liaison officer, said: “The Mersey Gateway is one of the biggest infrastructure projects currently under way in the UK and it is right on the doorstep of our primary schools.

“We hope these sessions will encourage children to think about becoming civil engineers when they are older.”