BOFFIN Jim Nicholson was honoured with an award in London for inspiring pupils in science.

He received the Most Dedicated Ambassador accolade for firing the imagination of students at the Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester.

Mr Nicholson, who lives in Weymouth, was recognised at the Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths Network (STEMNET) Ambassador Awards at the House of Lords.

He said he was pleased and surprised to receive the award from the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Children, Young People and Families, Baroness Morgan.

“Working as a STEM ambassador brings me into contact with enthusiastic staff and students in a spontaneous environment,” he said.

“The creative thinking and improvisation required are challenging and rewarding in themselves.

“But when the activity involves staff and students working co-operatively, the experience is very enjoyable.

“STEM Ambassadors are creating interest in STEM subjects which are essential to the long-term good of us all.”

There are 19,000 members of the Ambassadors Programme. They aim to inspire young people to follow careers in science, technology, engineering and maths.

They go into schools on a voluntary basis to run workshops, hold activities, lead experiments and give career talks.

Mr Nicholson, who works for QinetiQ at Winfrith, is working with Thomas Hardye students to help bring science to life.

He said that the Thomas Hardye School encouraged extra curricular activities.

He added that the school was extremely well organised and that industry liaison office Judith Wardlaw had played a key role.