CSI eat your heart out!

SOLVING a mysterious crime and identifying old bones were just some of the challenges awaiting school pupils last weekend (March 26).

The 20 youngsters, from local high schools, took part in a Forensic Science workshop held at Sir John Deane’s College, Northwich.

During the three-hour session, pupils were asked to identify ‘real’ bones including a skull and part of a leg, as well as taking part in practical experiments as forensic sleuths.

Chris Davis, a lecturer in Biological Sciences at the University of Chester, set the youngsters a number of challenges including identifying a suspect from fingerprints, investigating boot tracks, and using techniques for analyzing blood.

The pupils were invited to the Sir John Deane’s College science department from its local partner high schools that include Middlewich, Rudheath, Hartford, Leftwich and Weaverham.

Those who attended were: Josh Andersen, Paula Jones, Josh Thurston, Tom Dufty, Daniel Oakes, Lee Thurston, Megan McCabe, Beth Johnson, Lauren McCafferty, Nicole Blackburn, Alex Corradine, Hayley Smith, Lise Bouckley, Grace Poole, Jessica Pimlott and Helen Hankey.

Chris Davis, who investigated scenes of crime for the Metropolitan Police for 20 years, said: “I was impressed with the college and the enthusiasm displayed by all who took part. By catching pupils at the right time it helps to create interest in all things scientific!”

Pauline Lowrie, Head of Biology at SJD who organised the event, said: “The workshop was fabulous and really gave pupils an insight into the exciting things that studying science can lead to. These sessions also help us to forge important links between local schools, Sir John Deane’s College and Universities. We would really like to thank Chris for giving up his time to come and run such an exciting workshop.”

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