SNOW on the ground did not distract children from the serious business of climate change at a ground-breaking conference in Oxford.

About 350 children from eight Oxfordshire primary schools heard about different aspects of the threat of global warming from scientists at today's event, held at the Sheldonian Theatre, in Broad Street.

The event also marked the launch of the Ciao! Festival, a project linking science and the arts through the theme of climate change.

The project will see a giant ark built in Oxford city centre later this year to act as an impromptu theatre and gallery.

Artistic director Karen Draisey said: “Our concern was the weather. We thought it would have been ironic for a climate change conference to be called off but fortunately only two schools couldn't make it.

“The real stars were the scientists, who were very nervous about talking to an audience of schoolchildren, but we believe they got them inspired.”

Mr Leong is a member of a team of scientists researching future transport forms.

He said: “The event was a success. The kids really enjoyed it and were really well-informed and aware of climate issues.”

Each of the schools will now start working on performances to be held inside the ark when it arrives in the city in June.