The Melplash Agricultural Society is now accepting applications for its 2023 scholarship, aimed at helping local young people to study and gain qualifications in a farming, horticulture, forestry or agricultural-related subject.   

The scholarship offers successful applicants financial assistance with their apprenticeship, diploma or degree course, and is open to students, 16 years and over, who live within a 12-mile radius of Melplash village church, near Bridport. 

"Since its inception in 2007, the society has awarded scholarships to veterinary nurses, gamekeepers, agricultural engineers, crop geneticists, veterinary surgeons, agricultural apprentices and a host of other similar career options, said society director George Rendell.

 "The level of funding is variable, each application is assessed on its merits. In total we have made awards to 76 students to the tune of £192,000!

"Many of these students are now working in the community, helping to fill our food baskets and ensuring the excellent health of our farm animals. They also maintain the farm machinery and contribute to many of the diversification schemes that are operating on our larger farms and estates."

Scholarship student Cerne Iveson commented: "I would urge anyone who is looking to pursue a career in agricultural to apply for this scholarship. It is allowing me to continue my degree in veterinary medicine, I would have been struggling to fund my dream career without it."

The closing dates for applying is July 1 2023 and help with completing the application is available. Those candidates shortlisted will be required to provide references and will need to attend an interview in July.   

The application form is now available to download from the society website www.melplashshow.co.uk or for more information contact society secretary Lucy Hart by emailing [email protected] or call 01308 423337.