A UNIVERSITY student in Bradford has been awarded a £1,000 scholarship.

Joe Brier, a sports coaching undergraduate, is one of 14 first-year students at Leeds Beckett University to receive its annual Bright Futures funding.

The money is designed to offer financial support to students who might otherwise be unable to afford higher education. The scholarships are awarded to students who are the first in their family to go to university and are based on academic merit, with funding for the scheme provided by Leeds Beckett graduates.

Former Titus Salt School pupil Joe, 19, said he was delighted to receive the scholarship and that he would use the funding towards living expenses and transport costs.

He added: “I’ve been a sports fan for as long as I can remember and have played rugby since the age of seven. I first became interested in sports coaching when I was in the sixth form and had the opportunity to help younger students with sport as well as doing similar work with pupils in local primary schools.

“This Bright Futures Scholarship will be a great help to me as it will alleviate financial worry and allow me to fully concentrate on my studies without needing to worry about finding work too.”

Professor Susan Price, vice-chancellor at the university, said: “These scholarships make a significant difference to the students who receive them, helping to support their studies. Congratulations to Joe and all of our brilliant students selected for this year’s scholarships, all of whom have all shown great commitment and potential.”