FLEDGLING inventors and young braniacs have put their minds to the test in the 3M Young Innovators Challenge.

More than 130 pupils from 13 Wokingham District and Bracknell Forest schools have been taking part in the competition, set up by 3M technology firm and running in partnership with the organisation 'Learning to Work'.

The aim of this event is to encourage and inspire the next generation of original thinkers and to help them consider future jobs in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

Dr Ajay Sharman, the STEM ambassador and part of the judging board, and said: "It was a delight to act as a judge and see first hand the pupils' creative work. They also had to present their ideas to a panel and this is a great way to learn new skills and boost their confidence."

The four categories of the competition included building towers and bridges with minimum weight and maximum load, creating musical instruments from recycled products and making children's furniture from either recycled or sustainable materials.

Dr Phillip Lee, MP for Bracknell, will be presenting prizes to the winners at an awards ceremony held in the 3M Centre on May 25.