A STUDENT from Dorchester has been awarded a scholarship after demonstrating his passion for the dairy sector.

Will Holmes, from Hilltop, Frampton, Dorchester, is the winner of this year’s Dairy Crest/NFU Scholarship Fund Award.

He has received a £1,500 prize which will be used to aid his career.

Will, who recently returned from Australia and New Zealand, said: “I will be able to obtain foot trimming qualifications and also hope to attend a DIY artificial insemination course.”

The Reading University agricultural student was chosen for his enthusiasm for looking at opportunities for the dairy industry to lead sustainable intensification, to increase self-sufficiency, and to re-establish the UK in the world market.

Applicants for the scholarship fund awards were shortlisted after presentations in late August.

Final interviews took place at Bicton EaRTH, a centre for environmental and renewable energy technology in Devon.

Steve Harris, fund chairman of Dairy Crest, said: “Will is very focused and determined to make his mark. We are pleased to be able to support such an enthusiastic person who has such a strong belief in our industry.”

Will was one of four finalists, from 22 successful applicants, that entered this year’s scholarship competition.