YOUNG people are being encouraged to improve their technology skills in a new 3D Design and Print competition at Bridgwater Library.

Sedgemoor District Councillor Wes Hinckes is backing the competition saying it is a fun way for children to get a head start at dealing with modern technology.

A competition has been launched by Somerset Libraries, Sedgemoor District Council, Somerset County Council, Bridgwater Town Council in conjunction with software corporations Autodesk and CEL and Robox 3D printers, to give youngsters an opportunity to find out about 3D printing and design.

The competition is open to all young people aged 9 to 17 who live and attend school in the Bridgwater area.

Entrants need to submit the design of a 3D object representing an aspect of Bridgwater they believe is important; it could be a building, a place, an industry, an event, a person.

The competition closes on Saturday, April 15 after which a panel of judges will chose the winners who will receive a prize and have their creations displayed in Bridgwater Library. Top prizes include an Xbox for our overall winner.

Cllr Hinckes said: "How do we ensure that the young people of Bridgwater succeed in this bright new world?

"There is already a world of creativity, technology and imagination. The young people playing Minecraft on their computers today are learning skills that allow them to fashion and build entire worlds and everything within them.

"In ever changing times, in ever-changing industries, these are also the skills of the future.

"So we ask you all to get involved with this initiative to Back Bridgwater's future and it doesn’t matter if you’re young or old.

"Young people, we want to see your creativity and put it on show for the world to see.

"Parents and grandparents, maybe you can help them out with a bit of knowledge on Bridgwater’s history and heritage?"

For full details please visit: digitalbridgwater.com.