Following applications from students representing 18 colleges across the UK, six students have been awarded Student Scholarships by the David Colegrave Foundation (DCF).

Because the standard of entries was particularly high this year, the charity elected to award six scholarships of £1,000 instead of an intended five.

The six are Hannah Schlotter, Capel Manor College; Adam Ferguson, College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise; Charlotte Bancroft, Merrist Wood College; James Hayley, Writtle College; and Lydia Mackay and Suzie Irlam, Pershore College.

Hannah Schlotter, who is studying for a Level 3 Sub-Diploma in Horticulture, said she was thrilled with the award. “My aims are to start a video blog about growing, so this scholarship will enable me to get cracking, and start sharing with others what I am learning in horticulture. Receiving this scholarship has been hugely encouraging."

James Hayley, studying for a BSc in Horticulture, said: “Thanks to the foundation I shall be able to focus 100% on my studies over these next few very important months.”

Sandra Nicholson, senior lecturer at Writtle College, said it was great news for James and added: “We are very grateful for the support that the David Colegrave Foundation offers our students.”

DCF chairman Jeff Colegrave said the ibnterests of this year’s students range from growing, retailing and landscaping to pathology and technology. “There were a number of stand-out applications which is why we chose to award an additional scholarship. As always we now look forward to following each student on their journey.”

The DCF Scholarship Season is still open. Applications for Sponsored Scholarships from Wyevale Garden Centres, South West Growers Show, Floranova, Ball Colegrave and BPOA are due by 31 January 2015.

For more details visit www.davidcolegravefoundation.org.uk