College students studying agriculture in the south west can apply for a £500 bursary to support their studies.

As part of its Future Farming Programme, Cornish Mutual is offering four bursaries of £500 to students studying an agriculture-based level 1, 2 or 3 course at Bicton, Duchy and Kingston Maurward College, or Bridgwater and Taunton College, Cannington Campus.

The money can be used towards course-related costs such as buying PPE and funding transport or covering additional qualifications.

“Our Future Farming programme aims to support the future of agriculture in the south west and so we’re delighted to be offering these bursaries to students,” said Peter Beaumont, Cornish Mutual managing director.

“Our local colleges play a vital role in growing the next generation of farmers - we believe this initiative provides resources to enhance students’ learning.”

Entries open on May 1 with students required to submit a short written or photo essay, podcast or video on why they want to be part of British agriculture.

Applicants must also state how they would spend the money.

Applications close at the end of September and recipients announced in November 2021.

To apply or find out more, email futurefarming@cornishmutual.co.uk or visit https://bit.ly/CMBursaries.