YOUNG people who are full of creative and imaginative ideas are being encouraged to apply for a “day of invention” inspired by millionaire industrial designer Sir James Dyson.

The day-long Think It Build It event will provide a platform for teenagers to experiment, invent and “put their creative ideas into practice.”

It will comprise a range of activities, including designing prototypes and “thinking up an idea for something that can be used in the home that is powered by or uses air.”

The initiative – at Calne Town Hall on Thursday, February 19 – follows a link-up between Splash Wiltshire and the James Dyson Foundation.

A total of 14 places are available for the event, which is free and aimed at young people aged 11 to 16.

Splash operations co-ordinator Simone Matthews said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with the James Dyson Foundation.

“We meet so many young people with amazing ideas and creative skills and we are really pleased to give them an opportunity to use those skills.

“Think It, Build It will challenge the imaginations of young people. It will get them thinking about what it takes to be a great inventor and give them an opportunity to test out some of their ideas.”

Launched by the man who revolutionised the vacuum cleaner, the James Dyson Foundation works with schools, teachers and universities around the country.

It encourages young people to think differently, make mistakes, invent and realise their engineering potential.

The long-term aim is to persuade more young people to think of engineering as a creative, fascinating and achievable career.

Splash promotes inclusion and development through a programme of activities in the school holidays.

People can apply to take part via the Splash Wiltshire website at www.splash-wiltshire.org.uk/ If it is , priority will be given to young people facing challenges in their lives. Meanwhile, the Splash Wild Wiltshire projects for children aged nine to 16 will be back for the February half-term break.

Ms Matthews said: “These are fantastic days, which offer young people safe but exciting opportunities to play outdoors, improve their self-esteem and confidence and build on their social skills and team work.”

For details of Splash activities, call (01380) 732829 or email info@splash-wiltshire.org.uk