Science festival swings into action

Europe’s biggest celebration of science, technology and discovery starts today at the University of Leicester.

More than 400 scientists and 3,000 visitors are expected to attend this year’s Festival of Science organised by the British Association, one of Britain’s oldest scientific institutions.

The BA Science Festival gives experts from a wide range of disciplines a chance to present new findings and swap ideas.

It also gives members of the public a unique chance to find out more about the latest developments in science.

At this year’s meeting, which lasts all week, topics as varied as astronomy, psychology, human evolution, climate change and medicine will be discussed.

Today a team from the British Antarctic Survey will talk about the likely fate of Antarctic marine life as global warming heats up the region’s lakes and seas.

Scientists from the charity Cancer Research UK will also be discussing drugs that can reduce the risk of inherited cancers.

As well as presentations and seminars there will be a large number of hands-on activities and competitions for younger visitors aged 6-13.

The BA Festival of Science dates back to 1831 when a group of scientists decided to organise a touring event taking science out of the capital to different parts of the UK.