For many the spiralling costs of studying can put young people off continuing their education.

But one lucky student is in for a bursary worth hundreds of pounds after Shortlands residents decided to lend a helping hand.

The Shortlands Residents' Association (SRA) is offering a £250 bursary to any prospective college or university student or apprentice.

MORE TOP STORIES The money is intended to go towards books, tools and other equipment they would otherwise be unable to afford.

The cash is open to anyone aged 16-25 living within the area the association covers.

The first time this offer has been on the table, it is being trialled to mark their 80th anniversary.

Mark Dempsey, 61, chairman of the SRA, said: “We charge £1 a year for membership which mostly goes on newsletters etc, and over the years we’ve built up quite a surplus.

“We were looking at ways we could give something back.

“Depending on the level of interest we get we might continue to offer this.”

He has written to the headteachers of 18 local schools and colleges to promote the bursary and invite applications.

The retired civil servant, from Kingswood Road, added: "We know that starting a new course or apprenticeship is a big step for young people.

"Many will need to invest in books, tools or other equipment without having their own resources to help them get off to a flying start.

"We want to do what we can to make sure that a young person from Shortlands has all the help they need."

To apply, prospective candidates are being asked to fill in a form including why winning the money would benefit them.

Applications will be accepted until around May time so the recpient can be told before the summer holidays. 

The SRA will then decide who is to receive the sum, announcing the winner around June.

The lucky person will also be required to write a report for next September detailing how the bursary money was spent.

For more information and to apply visit: www.shortlandsresidents.org.uk