A CHARITY that helps thousands of teenagers and young adults from Weymouth and Portland into further education is celebrating its 350th anniversary this year.

The Sir Samuel Mico Trust, which was first launched by Sir Samuel in 1665, will mark the historic milestone with its annual church service on Friday, March 27.

The trust provides grants for teenagers, aged between 16 and 18, which can be used for educational course fees, living costs for those on educational courses, equipment or tools in connection to courses and assisted places on the Tall Ships Youth Trust Shops.

Sir Samuel created the trust to provide young people with financial assistance as they developed skills for trades and the trust is now providing financial help as students move from education into work, or into further education. But, it’s not just money the trust provides.

It also offers students mentorship and helps them develop skills to be used in further education such as at university, or at future jobs.

Gary Hepburn, chairman of the trustees, said: “It’s fantastic Sir Samuel Mico’s bequest continues to support so many young people 350 years after his death and it is an honour for the trustees to continue to deliver Sir Samuel Mico’s wishes.

“The trustees will be delighted to welcome past and present beneficiaries from Sir Samuel Mico charities to attend this important service, and to mark the wonderful bequest Sir Samuel left the people of Weymouth.”

The annual service will take place from 11am at St Mary’s Church and will include presentations and a number of speeches delivered to the audience, one of which will be from Mayor of Weymouth and Portland Kate Wheller.

A short procession from the church to the George Inn will follow after.

Cllr Wheller said: “It’s an incredible charity. It’s not just the money, it’s the support they get, and the internships they get as well at which they do proper work. It’s great, it shows local businesses just what talent we have here locally, as we have some very talented and bright young people here.”

Tom Andersson, a Sir Samuel Mico scholar, is now at Cam-bridge University and credits the scholarship programme for helping him gain a place.

Mr Andersson added: “The experience has given me the momentum to continue grasping at opportunities whilst striving to achieve my long term and short term goals.”

Rebekah Roberts, another Sir Samuel Mico scholar, added: “This scholarship has enabled me to gain real experience and opportunity in book illustration, which is my chosen career interest.

“This has opened up a huge door for me, as it would have been very difficult for me to get my name out there.”