A CAR parts maker has been working with pupils at Abbey Junior School to promote science and maths.

ElringKlinger (GB), which is based in Redcar, wants to help address the skills gap in the industry by collaborating with local schools and colleges.

Stuart Cheeseman, a quality engineer at the company, has just completed his fifth year on the project.

About 100 pupils from year four heard about his experience, and teams were set the task of building a car.

At the end of the week three teams which impressed judges were given a prize in a special presentation by ElringKlinger managing director Ian Malcolm.

Mr Cheeseman said: “Having been involved with the project for five years now I know how much the children enjoy it and the skills that they can learn.

“While we teach them practical skills such as measuring, drawing and design, the programme is more about developing problem-solving skills.

“The children are encouraged to do as much as they can themselves and overcome any issues that they encounter.”