The annual AstraZeneca Science Prize has been awarded to a team from Fallibroome High School in Macclesfield, Cheshire, as overall winners of the East Cheshire regional finals of the CREST (CREativity in Science and Technology) Science Awards.

Entries were judged by a panel of scientists and educationalists at AstraZeneca's Alderley Park site in Cheshire on June 27. The prize, a cheque for £75 each and a trophy, rewards excellence in the sciences and was presented by Will Spinks, AstraZeneca Alderley Park Site General Manager.

The Fallibroome team, supported and encouraged throughout the preparation of their project by teachers Claire Burstow and Rebecca Miller, also came top in the CREST Bronze Award category. The CREST Silver Award went to Katherine Harrison, Charlotte Parrish, Jemma Sherratt and Polly Edwards (teacher, Anne Cohen) from The King's School, Girls Division in Macclesfield. Christal Fisher (teacher, Gareth Jones) from Wilmslow High School took the CREST Gold Award. Each of the 38 CREST Award finalists received a certificate and £50 cheque from AstraZeneca.

Fallibroome's winning Science Prize entry investigated various aspects of Vitamin C, whether contained in a food supplement or fresh fruit. Speed of absorption in the digestive system and cost were amongst the aspects examined. It was one of 11 projects submitted by 38 local secondary school students, involving many hours' work and dedication by the students and their teachers.

Tim Sibthorp, National Executive for SETNET (Science, Engineering, Technology and Mathematics Network, supported by the Department of Trade and Industry), explained: "The AstraZeneca Life Science Programme helps to encourage student interest in bioscience through practical projects relevant to the curriculum and gives CREST accreditation at various levels."

He continued: "Throughout this Year of Science, AstraZeneca scientists have worked with local schools to support young people and excite them about science. They have certainly exceeded expectations and we wish the schools and AstraZeneca every success for the future of the AstraZeneca Science Prize."

The AstraZeneca Science Prize is an example of the company's commitment to science, education and the local community.

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