Academics, businesses and students in Bradford are getting ready for the arrival of the UK’s top scientists this week as the city hosts the British Science Festival for the first time in more than a century.

Celebrations were due to start today as the University of Bradford hosted the launch of Europe’s largest and most high profile public science event.

From Saturday, 350 of the top scientists, engineers and commentators in the country will discuss the latest developments in science and technology.

The festival preview today was due to feature local schoolchildren making model planets, live music and interactive stands.

Sir Roland Jackson, chief executive of the British Science Association, said: “We are thrilled to be returning, on our third visit since 1831, to Bradford – a diverse city with thriving cultural and educational institutions.

“This major national event, in the full gaze of the media, will draw public attention to the latest developments in science and technology, and will stimulate discussion about their implications and the place of the sciences in modern culture.”

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