ART, design and craft students at York College have been presented with hundreds of pounds in bursaries to support them in their studies.

The Company of Merchant Taylors have awarded the creative bursaries of £200, helping students to pursue their educational ambitions.

John Russell, master of the Company of Merchant Taylors in the city of York presented the students with their bursaries.

He said: “It is a great pleasure to be making these awards which are in keeping with the charitable aims of our company and our historical roots in the fashion trade of the city of York.”

Those to benefit were A-level art and design students India Copley, 17, and Emma Foster, 18, both of Selby, HE art and design students Emily Graddon, 20, and James Bennett, 22, from York, BA (Hons) contemporary 3D crafts students Will Holland, 20, from Strensall, Melissa Middleton, 20, from Malton, and Henry Jewitt, 20, from Market Weighton.

Others are Diploma 3D design drafts student Kayleigh Southren, 17, from York, BA (Hons) fashion design student Kathryn Penistone, 22, from York, and extended diploma in fashion and clothing students Abigail Parvin, 18, from New Earswick, Eleanor Cowlard, 18, from Selby, and Alice Bywater, 18, from Harrogate.

The students’ financial situations and commitment to their studies was taken into consideration when the awards were made.

Helen Ventress, head of division for art & design and craft at York College, said: “We are extremely grateful to the Company of Merchant Taylors for their continued support. The creative bursaries make a huge difference to these very deserving students. Whilst at college, these extra funds will add value to their studies and will very much enrich their learning experience.”