ENGINEERING students have visited some of the world’s biggest manufacturers to help them with their studies.

Twelve students from Darlington College spent two weeks in Mulheim, the home of the Mercedes-Benz van plant and Siemens’ power generator factory.

The visit was a return trip in an exchange programme run by Darlington College and Berfuskolleg Technical College, in Mulheim - Darlington’s twin town.

Students were able to hone their skills in college as well as tour the Mercedes and Siemens plants.

Matty Martyni, 18, of Darlington, said: “Everyone was interested in us – it was very friendly.

“They knew a lot about Darlington and even had a park named after the town.”

Helen Bolam, 19, of Barnard Castle, added: “The Mercedes factory was amazing - there were so many robots.”

Neil Bowen, curriculum manager for engineering and science, said the students were truly inspired by the trip.

“They all received a certificate of completion, which will enhance their CVs and will they produce a final report on the visit, as well as design posters,”he added.