Families will be invited to try their hand at scientific experiments, while doing their weekly shopping.

Shoppers at Templars Square Shopping Centre in Cowley, Oxford, will be exploring the worlds of science and maths to mark the start of the city's Festival of Science and Arts, starting on Saturday.

The annual event is being organised by the Oxford Trust, a charity set up to promote the study of science and technology.

On Saturday the trust will set up a 'Sci-Art Shop' between 11am and 4pm, where passers-by will be encouraged to take part in scientific workshops.

The event will be followed by a 'Sci-Art Sunday' at Oxford School in Glanville Road, Oxford, on February 3, when families will be able to make candles, fossils and kaleidoscopes, and learn more about botany and maths.

Throughout the two-week festival, events will also be held in primary and secondary schools around the county.

One of the key events will be a day of activities at Oxford High School, designed to stimulate interest in the sciences and promote awareness of the opportunities available to A-level students. The event will feature guest speakers from Oxford University.

Further details of lectures and events are available from the Oxford Trust on 01865 811105.