THOUSANDS of pounds in grants are being awarded to students starting college or university by a housing associatiion.

Liverpool Housing Trust runs the Bernie Evans bursary scheme which gives tenants a helping hand with the cost of their studies.

It was set up in memory of Bernie Evans, a well respected Runcorn tenant representative, who worked hard for the community.

It aims to encourage and inspire young people to study in further education.

Lisa Bedding, from LHT’s regeneration team, said: “We know that a grant can make all the difference to our tenants who have plans to study.”

More than £22,000 has been awarded in the last five years.

Jade Kinsey, aged 20, from Windmill Hill, Runcorn, received a grant last year.

The grants, up to £1,500, have been spent on course fees, equipment and computers.

LHT tenants aged 18 or over can still apply for this year by visiting www.lht.co.uk for an application form.