A DARWEN teenager has been offered a geography bursary worth £4,000 to explore South East Asia.

Andrew Robinson, 18, who is studying for his A-Levels at St Wilfrid’s CofE Academy in Blackburn, was awarded the scholarship by the Royal Geographical Society.

The A grade student, who assists classes of year seven geography pupils in his free periods, is the second student from the school to be awarded the prestigious bursary.

Andrew will get to see the world in action as he globetrots, acting as an ambassador and speaking to children about geography as part of the programme.

He said: “My mum and dad are really proud of me and are giving me all their support. I’m just really excited, I can’t wait to go.

“I’m not nervous, I’ll eat anything so I’m not really worried about food.”

Andrew said he would like to visit Indonesia and Japan and can stay abroad as long as the money lasts.

Next Friday he will be meeting with the society to discuss and plan what he will do when he is out there.

After his travels, Andrew would like to study for a natural hazard management degree at Coventry or Chester.

Alison Crompton, Andrew’s geography teacher, said: “Andy is a very motivated student, I’m so happy for him.

“He has always had a real interest in the subject. When I ask a question he will be really quiet and then come out with an absolute gem.

“He put together the application for the bursary by himself and did a really good job.”

Mark Trohear, head of geography, said: “I’m delighted. This is what geography is about, seeing the world in action. I just wish I was going with him!”