Hatherleigh science fair returns to inspire curious minds

A science fair bringing cutting-edge research to the rural community of Hatherleigh is set to return after a successful debut in 2024.

Organised by the Hatherleigh Science Group, the event is the brainchild of Josie Lloyd, a retired arts and events organiser who previously chaired the Hatherleigh Festival, and Dr Craig Beall, a local resident and neuroscientist.

The pair have planned a week of lectures and a science fair to coincide with British Science Week (9 to 16 March 2025). 

ABOVE: A list of their events for the week

The fair itself, a free event, will take place on Saturday 15 March at the Old Schools building in Hatherleigh from 10.30am to 1.30pm.

The idea for the event was sparked by a conversation at the Tally Ho Pub, where Josie and Dr Beall discussed whether a local audience would be interested in a lecture on neuroscience.

Dr Beall, who runs a research lab at Exeter University, was curious about the response. Josie, convinced that the topic would draw interest, offered to help organise the event.

“For British Science week last year we put on a series of lectures including Dr Beall’s 'The Beautiful Brain’ all our lectures sold out,” Josie told The Moorlander. 

“So YES local folks are interested!”

Thanks to Dr Beall’s industry connections, the event has secured high-profile speakers for this year’s programme.

Celebrating the community’s enthusiasm for science, Josie said: “We have the most wonderful community here.”

The family-friendly fair on Saturday will be run by young researchers from Exeter University, who will lead hands-on experiments and interactive activities for children and adults alike.

Hoping to inspire the next generation, Josie added: “If we can encourage even one young person to consider a career in science, wouldn’t that be amazing?”