THE wonder of science will be enjoyed and celebrated at a free family event for all budding Isaac Newtons or Marie Curies.

Building on the success of the 2019 event, the second Family Science Fair will be taking place at Dorchester Corn Exchange.

Aimed at children aged four plus, but with something for all ages to enjoy, the event this year will include more than 20 different stalls from a range of scientific disciplines to allow visitors to get involved in some fantastic hands-on learning and experiments.

There will be a great range of activities, hosted by local scientists, allowing people to try all sorts of investigations – find out how physics can make music using vegetables, learn how to use a high powered microscope, explore the biodiversity of the natural world, discover how magnets and gravity work and see a demonstration of how electrical stimulation can be used to control your arms and legs.

The event is being co-ordinated by Dorchester Town Council, Bournemouth University, the Thomas Hardye School, the Dorset Museum and the Institute of Physics.

This year the fair has spread its wings to work with partners across the town to create the first Dorchester Science Festival. Others offering events as part of the week include Waterstones, Dorchester Library, and the AsOne Theatre Company which have a unique show all about the life of Mary Anning.

The Dorchester Science Festival is programmed as part of British Science Week which runs from March 6-15 and is a celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

Judith Wardlaw, one of the co-organisers, representing Thomas Hardye School, said: “Staff and students are delighted to be involved in the 2020 Dorchester Science Festival, and to help it to grow. By showcasing examples of science and technology club activities, and offering extra events, we hope younger children - together with their family members of all ages - will enjoy a variety of experiences and find them educational, entertaining and inspiring, thereby helping to develop their interests and confidence.”

Elizabeth Selby, Director of Collections and Public Engagement at Dorset Museum, said: “We will be showcasing some of our collection, and through fun activities we hope to inspire a new generation of budding scientists.”

The event at the Corn Exchange is on Sunday, March 15 from 1pm-5pm. It is free but you must obtain a ticket, available from the Dorchester Tourist Information Centre (in the town’s library).

For more information about everything taking place for the Dorchester Science Festival check out the Facebook page or visit the TIC and pick up a programme.