SCHOOL children gathered in Belle Vue Park to catch a glimpse of the solar eclipse this morning.

They watched as the moon covered around 85 per cent of the sun at about 9.28am this morning.

The UK will not see a solar eclipse, where the moon comes between the earth and the sun, on this scale again until 2026

Local geologist Dr Christian Baars, who’s six-year-old daughter attends Albert Primary School, used binoculars and pinhole projectors to allow the children to watch the eclipse safely.

They were warned not to look at the sun directly as it could seriously damage their eyes. Instead they used binoculars, pin hole projectors from cardboard boxes and a colander to watch the eclipse.

Dr Baars said he hoped the eclipse made science fun and encouraged children to learn about astronomy.

“I wanted to show to people that it could be possible to look at this sort of science without spending money on expensive equipment, as we have just used binoculars and cardboard boxes,” he said.

“Using binoculars as an aid projects the light so you can see what’s going on.

“It’s like a basic introduction to optics and making science fun.”

Dr Baars, who has a PHD in paleontology and also takes people fossil hunting on Penarth beach on the first Saturday of each month, added: “Science doesn’t have to be complex, you can break it down into understandable chunks.”

Parents said it was important for them to learn about the eclipse firsthand and experience it themselves, rather than watch it on television.

Former Penarth Times reporter Jessica Fenton watched the eclipse with her six-year-old son Eli.

"I think it’s an excellent opportunity for them to see it themselves,” she said.

“I understand why schools wanted to minimise risk to eyesight and watch it on television, but with someone like Christian willing to take the time to take safe steps it allows them to watch it themselves it's a great experience for them.”

Amanda Valentine-Baars, who was watching it with her six-year-old daughter Evie, said: “I think it’s important that they watch it in a safe environment. It’s their first opportunity to see an eclipse and hopefully it will be a memorable one and will inspire them to watch it again in 2026.”

Louise McCarthy, who was watching it with her daughter Amelie, said: “We have really enjoyed it and it’s been a great experience. It’s better seeing it yourself rather than on television.”