PDM, which is part of the Huws Gray group of companies, was contacted by Miss Evonne Cameron, the headteacher at Johnstonebridge Primary School when she enquired whether they’d be able to donate any materials that would help inspire her pupils and nurture their inquisitive engineering brains.

Chris Sloan, assistant branch manager at PDM in Dumfries, explained, “We’ve always been committed to supporting the communities in which we operate and it’s important to inspire future generations to consider all the career options open to them.

“Whilst the pupils will no doubt enjoy using the materials that we’ve donated in a creative play sense, they’ll also be developing useful engineering skills by building structures and then considering how they can be rebuilt in alternative ways.”

Along with pipes, fittings, and removal tools to enable the re-use of all the materials, the PDM team also provided the pupils with bags, pens, hats and other merchandise.

Commenting on the donations, Miss Cameron said, “We are hugely grateful to Chris, James, and the whole PDM Dumfries team for not only donating these items but for spending time with the children too.

“Developing inquisitive minds through play is how our pupils begin to think more creatively and scientifically, as well as develop vital problem-solving skills. I don’t doubt that we have some future engineers amongst the pupils who will benefit from today’s donation. Building close links with businesses in the area is such a positive thing and we look forward to seeing what they design!”

The relationship between PDM and Johnstonebridge Primary School is set to continue with the building materials supplier having pledged to provide the pupils with pallets from which they can construct different vehicles and dens for their playground.