A Bristol University student and a science demonstrator from At-Bristol are both in the running to be the next Blue Peter presenter.

Lindsey Russell (right, middle) and Ross Exton (right, far right) are among 10 hopefuls looking to land the dream job on the popular BBC children’s show.

Lindsey’s final exam in her four-year drama and French degree was yesterday, the same day that the Blue Peter shortlist was officially announced.

A presenter on student-run television station UBTV, Lindsey has also taught film, drama and English to French children, presented theatre workshops for The National Youth Theatre, performed at The Edinburgh Fringe Festival, is a keen skier and lacrosse player, and plays the piano and saxophone.

“I think I’m bubbly, fun to be around,” Lindsey says. “I am full of energy and think I’d make a good Blue Peter presenter as I know how to translate this energy to the viewers.

“I think that’s what makes me different – apart from my bright red hair and the fact that I’m really short. I have loads of enthusiasm and I’m always smiling. I’m quite clumsy too!”

Ross Exton’s job in At-Bristol involves giving hands-on demonstrations, live science shows (below) and presenting Planetarium shows.

He says: “I’m enthusiastic and think I have the ability to inspire viewers to explore the world and do whatever they want to do in life.

“That’s what Blue Peter is all about – it’s about making kids excited about new things and showing them its okay to ask questions and go on adventures. I hope that my experience working for At-Bristol will give me the edge!

“I can’t think of the words to describe how amazing it would be if I was the new Blue Peter presenter. I get excited a lot, but that doesn’t even begin to explain what it would mean to me. It would change my life.”