HARD-up local students are being offered a helping financial hand.

Study support grants are being offered by four charitable trusts to Ramsbottom students under the age of 25.

The British Cotton Growers Association of Ramsbottom is offering cash to those who presently attend school, a further education college or university. The association will give preference to those studying engineering, textile or allied subjects.

The John Kay Memorial fund is also offering financial support, but this fund is only open to former students of Bury College who are now attending the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (UMIST). Students can also apply to two other trusts, the Henry Howarth Ramsbottom and the Annie Shore Foundations, which are administered by the council.

The two organisations offer grants to university students or those attending further education training colleges. Applicants who are also studying nursing, massage or hospital work will also be considered. Secondary school, part-time and full day courses at further education establishments may also fall within the requirements, with assistance also being considered for those attending evening classes and courses for further education.

Bury Council's principal democratic services officer, Melanie Peaston, said: "Applicants have until Friday 15 September to submit completed forms if they believe that they may qualify. These can be obtained by writing to me at Bury Town Hall, Knowsley Street, Bury, BL9 0SW or by telephone on 0161-253-5130."