THREE brainboxes have developed a new system to feed bears at Colchester Zoo.

Budding engineers Ben Field, Ellen Usher and Sam Usher, from Tendring Technology College, took up the challenge to create an animal feeding device.

Zoo bosses launched a competition for children to come up with a new automated feeder system for the sun bears.

The trio spent six months designing and perfecting their system. It uses compressed air controlled by an electric valve to send food through a tube and into the enclosure at even intervals throughout the day.

The design will now be professionally manufactured and used inside the bear enclosure.

A school spokesman said: “We are extremely proud of the students and they have used their IT, technology and science skills to great effect on the project.

“This now means the Tendring Technology College design will be developed with a professional team in conjunction with the students to create a final feeder for the zoo.

“This is an excellent opportunity for them to develop their engineering skills and boost their CVs.”

A plaque will be placed at the enclosure marking their contribution and success.