EIGHT local schools will be battling it out to build a solar car and win the chance to represent Test Valley at the Hampshire finals of the Solar Car Challenge.

The schools, which include Wherwell Primary School, Grateley Primary School, Vernham Dean Primary School, Shepherds Spring Junior School and Amport Primary School, have been given a basic kit containing a solar cell, motor, gearing and wheels. From this the children will design and construct their own solar-powered model racing car.

They must perfect their design by 5 June when they will be racing the cars in the Test Valley district heats at Thruxton Race Circuit.