Clubs are inspiration to pupils.

BUSINESSES in Newcastle are being called on to help search for tomorrow's engineers.

More local employers are needed by the Imagineering Foundation, which runs after-school clubs to inspire schoolchildren to think about a career in engineering.

Volunteers from National Grid have come to the end of their first successful year as Imagineering Club tutors at Southridge First School, Whitley Bay.

The clubs were established by the Imagineering Foundation.

They hold hour-long after-school "tutorials" to introduce engineering to children aged from nine to 12 through fun and informative activities.

Chairman of Imagineering Foundation, Bob Shanks, said: "The Imagineering Clubs are inspiring today's youngsters to become the next generation of engineers and scientists.

"There are great benefits for companies supporting Imagineering Clubs, including creating links to local communities and schools.

"It can be a valuable part of their Corporate Social Responsibility programme.

"It also provides opportunities for personal development for engineers, who can become volunteer tutors in the clubs."