A potentially life-saving handwashing device created by two year eight pupils has made it to the national finals of a science competition.

The project, created by Pheobie Bruce and Sophie Tyrie, two pupils from Felsted School, has made it through to the final round of the National Youth Grand Challenges Competition.

A panel of expert in the fields of science, technology, engineering and maths will now judge its merits.

Pheobie and Sophie designed a hand washing device, as well as educational materials based on the theme of infectious diseases and stopping them spreading around the world.

A five strong team from the school was invited to London to present the science project as part of the Stop the Spread campaign, showcasing their work in front of members of parliament, charity representatives, business leaders, and presenters from the Gadget show.

Christina Bury, science teacher at Felsted School, said: "It is so important for our pupils to understand how technology can be used to challenge poverty in developing countries.

"The educational aspect of the 'Stop the Spread' programme encourages young people to use science to solve real world problems and we are delighted that Sophie and Pheobie's devices could potentially help to save lives.”