Programme Name: Stargazing Live - TX: 16/01/2012 - Episode: n/a (No. n/a) - Embargoed for publication until: n/a - Picture Shows: Presenters Prof Brian Cox and Dara O'Briain Professor Brian Cox, Dara O'Briain - (C) BBC - Photographer: Pete Dadds/Andrew Hayes-Watkins

BBC shows a big hit across Medway

AN astronomical society in Medway says more than 1,000 extra people have been heaven sent to them thanks to the BBC series Stargazing Live.

The week-long series of shows, fronted by Professor Brian Cox and comedian Dara O’Briain was designed to inspire people to study the universe and engage with astronomy.

And the Mid-Kent Astronomical Society says it achieved that in style, after being star struck by the sheer volume of inquiries to join and learn about the skies above us.

One of the organisers Trev Cannon said: “It really is quite amazing. The BBC series has stoked interest and we are doing our best to ensure everyone who comes along gains some valuable knowledge.”

He said sessions were recently held at Chatham Dockside and Mote Park in Maidstone, with more than 1,500 people turning up to learn how to tune in to the stars.

Mr Cannon added: “To have so many more show up is incredible. I was counting them at Dockside, and I lost count. We had six telescopes set up that night and some of our members were able to answer hundreds of questions from curious members of the public.

“We are now seeing some of those people come along to subsequent meetings, this time with their own equipment asking for help in understand it and setting it up.

“We are seeing so many more people interested in understanding how astronomy works that we have arranged a workshop at Bredhurst Village Hall on Friday at 7.30pm.

“Everyone is welcome and I believe many will be brining their own telescopes to learn how to use them properly.”

The BBC said at least 36,000 people have taken part in Stargazing Live events around the country so far and many more thousands attending other events.

For more information see www.midkentastro.org.uk.