NEARLY 100 scholarships have been handed out to students at the University of Worcester.

A total of 98 students were awarded the £1,000 Academic Achievement Scholarship by the university after achieving top grades in their studies. Among those receiving a scholarship was Alison Barratt, of Fernhill Heath, a child and adolescent mental health student who earlier this year took out the millionth book to be issued by the Hive.

She said: “I feel proud and honoured to receive such a generous award from the University of Worcester as an acknowledgment of my hard work throughout the year.

“This is the first time I’ve received an award like this, and I’d like to thank my tutors, my fellow students and my family for all their support.”

Also receiving his scholarship was paramedic science student Ben Jones, of London Road, Worcester, who said: “I was really surprised but absolutely delighted to have received this award.

“I’m really pleased that my progress at the University of Worcester has been noticed this year, and the financial aspect of the award will certainly help me through my second year.” The scholarships were presented at two awards ceremonies held at the new University of Worcester Arena and presided over by vice chancellor and chief executive Professor David Green.

Professor Green said: “I am delighted that so many of our students have been awarded scholarships this year. “It’s only fair that those who excel here at the University of Worcester should receive a scholarship, and the financial reward that goes with it.

“We are able to fund these scholarships thanks to the generosity of several benefactors, including many of our alumni, our College of Fellows and, in particular, Clive Richards.

“As well as rewarding our students, these scholarships are tribute to our inspirational teaching staff. “Any academic achievement is down to teamwork – the students put in the hard yards, but the staff and lecturers here at the University help to light the fire.”

Anyone interested in studying at the University of Worcester can visit at the next open day being held on Thursday, October 31, from noon until 4pm.