AN AGRICULTURAL society has opened up its annual bursaries to applicants after handing out a record amount last year.

The Melplash Agricultural Society’s annual bursary is now open to applicants.

The scheme was established in 2007 and offers grants to local students aged 17 and above who are furthering their education in the field of agriculture, horticultural and related subject areas.

Students who live within a 12-mile radius of Melplash village church could be eligible for a bursary of up to £2,000 per annum.

The society handed out grants worth an accumulative £30,500 in 2020 - its highest ever annual amount. The grants were given to 20 students in the area.

George Randell, society director, said: "Our bursary scheme is the envy of most other societies.

“We offer annual grants to students throughout their courses. Since 2007 we have awarded a magnificent £142,000 and have helped to support on-farm apprenticeships, veterinary students, trainee engineers, veterinary nurses and gamekeepers as well as would-be farm managers.

"We could not have accomplished this without the very generous and continued support of our members, sponsors and donors.”

For those looking to apply for a bursary, the deadline for new applications - including for the forthcoming academic year - is Sunday, August 1.

Further information and the application form are available to view and download at melplashshow.co.uk.