SCRAPHEAP Challenge star Dick Strawbridge hosted a science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) challenge at an army camp. 

The former Royal Corps of Signals officer returned to his military roots to host children at the Royal Signals Museum.  

Children from the Dorset Army Cadet Force and Downlands Community School, Blandford Camp, were among those who participated in the interactive day of engineering and innovation. 

Dick, who served with the Royal Corps of Signals from 1979 to 2001 and left the British Army as a Lieutenant Colonel, led a session focused on coding robotic vehicles. 

(Image: PR)

One of the event’s highlights was a build challenge where children put their creativity and engineering skills to the test - inspired by Strawbridge's time on Channel 4's Scrapheap Challenge.  

The teams constructed go-karts, a double-decker beach trolley, a suspension bridge with working elements. and even a portable toilet. 

The challenge was designed to encourage innovative thinking and collaboration, with the added benefit of gaining practical insights into engineering principles. 

Adam Forty, who leads the museum's STEM education and outreach programme, said: "We’re delighted to have Dick Strawbridge here, not only as a former Royal Signals officer but as a passionate advocate for STEM learning. 

“His hands-on approach really brought the day to life for the children, and we’ve seen them leave with newfound enthusiasm for problem-solving and engineering." 

Dick said after the event: “I had an amazing time at the Royal Signals Museum, visiting the units there, playing Scrapheap with the youngsters and giving a talk -  my first time back in 30 years.” 

The day before the STEM challenge, the TV star gave a Royal Signals Institution lecture where he shared stories of his time serving with the Royal Corps of Signals and his subsequent journey in the limelight.  

He also visited soldiers from the 11th (Royal School of Signals) Signal Regiment and 13th Signal Regiment at Blandford Camp, engaging with personnel on the latest innovations in military communications. 

To conclude his visit, Dick attended a dinner night with the volunteers and trustees of the Royal Signals Museum, celebrating the museum's continued efforts in education and outreach.