THE appliance of science was brought to life for youngsters across Inverclyde when an ‘out of this world’ workshop rolled into town.

A huge total of 800 budding boffins packed out Greenock Town Hall for the Elements of Science event, which included sci-fi fun workshops from Edinburgh University, science talks and a circus demonstration led by a juggling professor.

Iconic Star Wars baddie Darth Vader also thrilled youngsters when he made an appearance.

Sylvia Jardine, director of Bute Astronomical Club, which organised the show, was overwhelmed by the enthusiasm shown by children who came along.

Sylvia said: “They were so enthusiastic.

“One woman told me that her grandchildren enjoyed it so much that they stayed all day from 11am to 4pm. As well as encouraging children to get involved in science, we also want to encourage parents to take an interest.

“Lots of parents actually said that they wished that the event had been around when they were younger as it was so much fun.” Some of the exciting attractions on offer at the show included a mind-blowing planetarium, as well as brain training exercises.

The touring shows, which visit towns right across the west of Scotland, are part of the Scottish Government’s ‘Talking Science’ programme.