Published: Thursday, 11th March, 2010 4:00pm

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MAKING AND DOING: Aisha Theophilus

YOUNGSTERS were welcomed to the wacky world of science.

Around 2,000 visitors flocked to Royal Holloway, University of London, for its annual Science Open Day to celebrate the college's extensive research and outreach programmes.

Families could watch demonstrations of levitation as well as take part in making fairy jewellery, learn about rare British beetles, make model viruses and learn how Xbox games are created. Professor Philip Beesley, Dean of Science, said: "I am delighted that the day was such a huge success and attracted some 2,000 visitors.

"The feedback was extremely positive and we are delighted to have demonstrated the excitement, fund and relevance of science to so many visitors across all age ranges."

There were also talks given by staff and students from the university based on the theme of 'Working For A Green Future' on Saturday last week.

Dr Darren Baskill captivated the audience with a speech on 'Xtreme Astronomy' where he explained where x-rays come from, while Dr John Emsley showed how science can help feed a population of nine billion people and Dr Roger Key, former education officer for Natural England, talked about hunting for bugs in Antarctica.

Science outreach officer Dr Emm Barnes, who organised the event, said: "It was fantastic to see so many new faces at this year's Science Open Day despite the heavy rain.

"Some visitors travelled a long way.

"This year we launched our own mini 'university challenge' for school teams from Year 9, and the tense final resulted in Court Moor School from Fleet winning the £150 prize."