STUDENTS and scientists have teamed up to measure pollution caused by cars.

Pupils from the Hermitage School, in Chester-le-Street, spent Wednesday carrying out a series of tests on old and new cars to measure their impact on the environment.

The project coincided with National Walk to School Week, which finished yesterday, which was established to encourage parents and children to consider walking to school rather than using a car.

Hermitage students were working with scientists from Faber Maunsell and their findings will form part of an A-level course looking at the combustion of fuels.

Headteacher Ian Robertson said: "This was a great opportunity for students to work with a large international company to gain hands-on experience as they learn about the pollution caused by vehicles.

"The project fitted with the National Walk to School Week campaign and to raise awareness of the benefits of sustainable travel."

Senior environmental scientist Dr Tom Stenhouse said: "A major factor in the success of school travel planning is the understanding of the impact that both students' and parents' travel choices have on the environment, particularly in terms of the emissions of air pollutants."