Chemistry staff and students from Bristol University have been busy conducting experiments of a different kind - decorating Weston Park primary school in Lawrence Weston, Bristol.

Over 30 staff and students volunteered their time for the weekend challenge to help rejuvenate the interior for the school’s 259 pupils. Staff and students swapped their normal roles within the University’s School of Chemistry for those of decorators, using over 70 litres of paint to paint the school’s walls, ceilings and skirtings.

The challenge, organised by the Graduate Chemistry Association has significantly helped brighten up the school, producing a dazzling new look.

Dr Nick Walker of Bristol University said: "We’re delighted to be able to help out Weston Park primary school in this way. As well as raising awareness of community issues, it’s great that the University supports its staff in undertaking projects like this but it’s the talent and energy of our postgraduate organisers that have impressed me the most."

£1,000 was raised to fund the project through two pub quizzes, a cake sale and support from a range of organisations including Astra Zeneca, the University’s Public Programmes Office, the Royal Society of Chemistry, Dulux Decorator Centre, Croda International and B&Q. M&S, Sainsbury’s and Domino’s provided free food and refreshments for volunteers on the day.

The challenge took place on Saturday 29 July and Sunday 30 July at Weston Park primary school, Lawrence Weston, Bristol.

Photographs can be downloaded from www.chm.bris.ac.uk/gca/CommunityChallenge2006.htm