More than 350 children from primary and secondary schools in the Launceston area recently had the opportunity to learn about the use of traditional building skills at first hand as part of an exciting project organised by Cornwall Council's Launceston Townscape Heritage Initiative and English Heritage.

The project, which was held over a number of days on the castle green, saw exhibitors giving demonstrations on building with lime and cob, thatching and willow working.

The first two days involved 350 children from the local primary schools who were able to have hands on experience on building using these traditional techniques. Then it was the turn of older students from Launceston College, Duchy College and Saltash College who were able to spend more time with each exhibitor to gain a more in-depth look at the skills.

All the students had the opportunity of having a go themselves. The project ended with an open day for members of the public which was very well attended.

Local group M-MAD were commissioned to film on several of the days and a promotional dvd will now be produced to highlight the skills showcased on the day and educate watchers on their use. Eventually it is hoped that parts of this film will be up-loaded to the internet to access a wider audience.

Lorna Lane, THI Project Officer said: "We are delighted that the event has grown this year and that so many pupils were able to come and enjoy learning about these issues in a fun and interactive way. There were lots of smiley faces from all involved, especially after having a go at the cob building!

"We are also pleased that the attendance on the Saturday, which was open to the public, was so good. It is great to see so many people enthusiastic about traditional building skills. We also had a number of children who had not been able to attend the education days coming along to have a go, which was great."