AIR traffic controllers did their bit for gender equality this week with a "bring your daughter to work" day.

Staff at NATS the opened its doors to the next generation of female engineers this week following reports that only nine per cent of the UK's engineering and technology workforce are women.

Around 60 youngsters, aged between 13-18, had the chance to meet air traffic control engineers and enjoy a day of interactive talks, tours and activities.

NATS engineers' tasks range from from designing air traffic control technology to maintaining the UKs network of radar stations.

The event, held on July 27, was part of NATS Early Careers recruitment scheme, aimed at inspiring the next generation of female engineers and technicians by raising awareness of STEM related career paths in the aviation industry.

Employees from all three NATS sites (Whiteley, Swanwick and Prestwick) were encouraged to invite either a daughter, female family member or friend to work for the day.

Katie Foster, head of people services for NATS, said: “It’s really important for young girls and women to feel confident taking up a career in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) related industries.

“By inspiring and engaging with them from school age, we hope NATS can encourage them to think more about their career options and the opportunities available to them.”

NATS handled 2.4 million flights in 2016, covering the UK and eastern North Atlantic from its centres at Swanwick and Prestwick, Ayrshire. NATS also provides air traffic services at 14 UK airports; Gibraltar Airport and, in a joint venture with Ferrovial, at a number of airport towers in Spain.