Encouragement and support for seven students at Newton Rigg College has been given by agricultural suppliers Carrs Billington in the form of scholarships worth a total of £6,000.

The students, who are studying a range of courses in countryside management, agriculture and engineering, were presented with their awards in a ceremony at the college by Rae Tomlinson, the company’s Managing Director.

Mr Tomlinson said: “It gives me great pleasure to reward these young people for their educational achievements and help them towards successful careers in agriculture, the environment and rural pursuits. It is part of our commitment, not just to the farming industry but to the entire rural community, which we service and supply from our 26 country stores.”

On behalf of the College, Principal Wes Johnson commented: “We enjoy an excellent working relationship with Carrs Billington and that has been the case now for a number of years. Their support for our students and their encouragement is much appreciated and valued.

“There are tough demands on young people today in terms of their studies and resources, so a partnership such as this, not only provides our students with financial assistance to help gain important qualifications, but also enables them to forge links with a vibrant go ahead company at the heart of the Cumbrian community. It is also a valuable endorsement of our commitment to providing work ready individuals which lies at the heart of education here at Newton Rigg. ”

The successful students are: William Wright, Matthew Grainger and Robert Palmer who are studying countryside management, and Ellen Elliott, Thomas Gorst, Olivia Grindley and Matthew Todhunter, studying agriculture. It was a case of deja vue for Matthew who was also chosen by the company to receive a scholarship last year.