BUDDING young scientists have been recognised for their work during a regional competition.

Year 7 students Grace Boroughs, Freya Perry, Ava Readman and Anna White. who all attend Felsted School near Dunmow, were handed awards for their submission in the Regional UK Young Scientists and Engineers Fair.

The girls' project, called the Sanitary Shark, will be exhibited next year at the Big Bang National Finals.

Their invention aims to remove waste product from the ocean and preserve marine life.

Judges were particularly impressed the girls had been working with eco-hygiene company Grace and Green to help raise awareness of the hidden plastics in sanitary products alongside their project.

Fellow Year 7 pupils Ayla, Ava, Amelie, Phoebe and Jasmine meanwhile claimed the STEM Communication prize for their project ‘Equality in The Realm of The Munchkins’ which aimed to challenge preconceived ideas of stereotypical roles in the workplace by creating children’s books promoting equality.

Judges were said to be impressed with the books, which the girls themselves had illustrated and had printed, that they recommended they also apply for the National Finals.

Speaking after the competition, Felsted School's director of learning Christina Bury said: "Many of our students are inspired to take up career in STEM and these projects are fundamental in recognising that they can challenge perceptions and make a difference to the world they live in."