A TEAM of talented chemists from Blundell’s School, Tiverton, represented the Western Region at a national chemistry competition – and were awarded the runners-up prize.

Natalie Cotton, Bethany Squires and Chris Hamilton, all Year 12, were taking part in the Royal Society of Chemistry’s National Schools' Analyst Competition final, having qualified earlier this year by winning the regional round.

They saw off some stiff competition from Exeter School, Kingswood Bath and Cheltenham Ladies College.

The final was held at the Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen where the Blundell's trio finished in second place against a pool of 20 other schools, all of whom had won their respective regional competitions.

Andy Mead, Head of Chemistry at Blundell’s, said: “This result is a fantastic achievement for the pupils who showed immense skill, application and, perhaps most importantly, teamwork to finish above the other 398 schools that entered the competition back in January.

“The Royal Society of Chemistry have recognised their achievement by awarding £600 to Blundell's Chemistry Department and £30 in Amazon vouchers and certificates to Natalie, Bethany and Chris.”

The winning team came from Ruthin School representing the North West Region.

Blundell’s is a co-educational independent school for full, weekly and flexi boarding and day pupils from ages 11 to 18.