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●» STUDENTS from schools in Tytherington are designing and making their own roller coasters as part of an engineering contest.

Beech Hall Primary and Tytherington School pupils are among nine schools from Macclesfield and Congleton currently taking part in the Siemens Roller Coaster Challenge.

Now in its third year, the project, which is run in partnership with marketing agency TMC Strategic Communication, involves pupils from years seven to nine.

As part of the competition, pupils from the schools were invited to Siemens’ Congleton factory for a behind the scenes tour.

During the trip they got the chance to see up close the technology behind some of the UK’s most famous roller coasters, including Alton Tower’s Nemesis and Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s Pepsi Max.

Richard Dunn, project leader at Siemens UK and Ireland, said: “We’re committed to promoting the benefits of science and engineering and nurturing young talent through fun and creative initiatives such as the Roller Coaster Challenge.

“We’re delighted with the success of the programme to date and look forward to seeing even more innovative designs this year.”

More than 50 teams made up of 300 pupils are now working hard on making their entries.

Engineering apprentices from Siemens will mentor the teams throughout the challenge, which will come to an end with a presentation evening at Congleton’s Town Hall.

Prizes at the final event will be awarded for the best projects in three categories, which are: Innovation, creativity and design; Presentation and visual appeal; Thrill factor (G force and speed).