SCHOOLS from south Durham have taken part in a project that combines science and the arts.

Members of Jack Drum Arts have delivered workshops in three secondary schools - Wolsingham Comprehensive, Greenfield, in Newton Aycliffe, and Teesdale, in Barnard Castle - based on a theory of the science of ageing developed by Professor Tom Kirkwood, at Newcastle University.

Prof Kirkwood has researched the ageing process and believes humans should live forever given the way cells reproduce, but because of a malfunction the ageing process continues.

Seventy students took part in the three workshops, which involved dance, sculpture, digitally manipulated imagery and drama.

The project was awarded a £40,000 grant from the Wellcome Trust, through the Arts Council.

Pupils from the schools shared their experiences during a series of presentations and group discussions at the University of Durham yesterday.

Prof Kirkwood opened the event at St Hild and St Bede College and gave a speech on the ageing process.

Jill Cole, of Jack Drum Arts, said: "We are delighted to be working on such an exciting project.

"The response from the schools has been excellent and the students' imaginations have really been fired up by the subject matter."

The material produced by the youngsters will form part of a professional performance to be staged at The Arc, in Stockton, in March.

The performance will be open to secondary schools throughout the region. For details call Jack Drum Arts on (01388) 529044.