SCHOOL pupils in Renfrewshire have been shown how they can build successful careers by knocking things down.

A fascinating insight into the demolition industry was revealed to youngsters visiting a multi-million pound project which is transforming the Clyde waterfront in Renfrew.

Construction is scheduled to start next year on the project, which includes the first opening road bridge over the River Clyde, improving access to work, education, hospitals and leisure for communities on both sides of the river.

Advance clearance works are being led by contractor Daltons Demolitions who presented the career opportunities in demolition to a group of S5 and S6 pupils.

A total of 20 youngsters were taken round the site, where they got the chance to sit inside an excavator and even test their skills in a special demolition plant simulator.

James McAllister, commercial manager at Daltons Demolition, said: “I’m sure many of them were surprised to learn that a career in demolition requires special skills and can also pay very well.

“My advice to any young person considering demolition or any other part of the construction sector would be to gain the necessary certificates and qualifications and, once you have your foot in the door, turn up on time every day, work hard, show enthusiasm and you’ll go far.”

Seventeen-year-old Darren Young, who is a pupil at Johnstone High School, said: “The simulator was quite hard at first but, once I got the hang of it, I was fine.

“It was interesting seeing how you transform a site and get it ready for a new project.”

Liam Donnelly, 16, who attends Gryffe High School, in Houston, added: “I really enjoyed the visit, especially doing the virtual reality simulator, which was difficult to handle, and learning about all the different machines.”

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