THINKING of a number was the name of the game as bright students took part in a day of challenging workshops held by Johnny Ball.

The TV maths and science whizz - father of TV star Zoe - led the way at one of eight workshops at University College Worcester's Year 9 Challenge Day.

It was organised for 200 13 and 14-year-olds from 18 schools across Worcestershire.

The beacon schools Pershore High School and Haybridge High School set up the conference to stretch the pupils' abilities.

As well as the science and maths workshop, there was the chance to try African drumming, creative writing, palaeontology and foreign languages.

"It's an exciting project where we were able to gather 200 of the brightest Year 9 pupils in the county together under one roof," said Clive Corbett, deputy head of Pershore High School. Teachers also took part in workshops

"It's only one day, but if we can inspire them all to go back to their schools and focus on getting the best from their gifted students it will have achieved its aims," said Mr Corbett.