STUDENTS from Penarth heard from British astronaut Tim Peake at Wales' biggest careers fair recently.

SkillsCymru 2016 which was held at the Motorpoint Arena in Cardiff saw Mr Peake speak to students via a live link to the event.

Students from Headlands School, St Cyres Comprehensive School and Stanwell School joined thousands of others in hearing him talk about the important science experiments he conducted during his mission for researchers across the planet.

More than 50 employers attended the event including HS Wales, Horizon Nuclear Power, Aldi and the RAF.

Students were given the chance to meet apprentices and employers from a range of different industries including manufacturing, medicine, teaching, tourism, caring and catering.

There were interactive games, challenges, mock job interviews and the chance to quiz exhibitors about career opportunities and advice.

They were also put through their paces by the British Army, had their welding skills tested using Lincoln Electric’s virtual reality simulator and took part in drama workshops with the Arts Council of Wales.

Humza Rehmani, aged 15, joined fellow students from St Cyres School at the Building Engineering Services Association stand where they completed a challenge against the clock of constructing a pipe network to win vouchers.

He said: "I’ve really enjoyed Skills Cymru because I’ve been able to chat to lots of different employers.

"There are loads of activities to get involved in and I’m excited to try the climbing wall and talk more with the British Army about the opportunities available."

Part-financed through the European Social Fund, SkillsCymru is organised by Prospects and Cazbah, and supported by the Welsh Government.

The careers events, which each year attracts more than 10,000 visitors take place annually at Venue Cymru in Llandudno and the Motorpoint Arena.

Welsh Government minister for skills and science, Julie James said: "SkillsCymru is a significant event in the careers calendar and is a must for anyone looking to find out more about the career opportunities in Wales from apprenticeships and other vocational routes to higher education or college courses.

"For many of the young people visiting, this was their first chance to speak to employers face-to-face and ask questions in a relaxed environment to find out what skills are required to achieve their dream job.

"It was really refreshing to see so many young people getting involved in the different hands-on activities and getting inspiration about their dream job and future career path."