AN ALEXANDRIA student has secured a £1,000 bursary towards her studies from a Dumbarton firm.

Lauren Evans is one of four students set to take their talents to the next level after being awarded a total of £4,500 in funding as part of Chivas Brothers’ national bursary scheme.

The proud winner, who is currently studying forensic and analytical chemistry at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, was encouraged to apply for the bursary by her father Raymond, who works as a team leader at Chivas Brothers’ Kilmalid site.

She said: “I can’t believe that I’ve been accepted. The £1,000 will go a long way in helping to alleviate some of the travel costs I face.

“My ultimate career goal is to work for the Forensic Department of Police Scotland, and now I’m determined to make this dream a reality.”

Held in partnership with the Scottish International Educational Trust (SIET), the sought-after scheme offers financial support to ambitious employees and their family members, helping them to realise their aspirations through further education or vocational training.

Alongside Lauren are fellow winners Claire Park, who is studying Applied Science at Moray College; Paul McFadden, an aspiring programmer from Glasgow; and Eilidh Ross, a Human Rights and International Politics student at the University of Glasgow.

Jennie Norrish, global communications director at Chivas Brothers, said: “We’re really proud to be able to support our employees and their family members to realise their ambitions.

“Our 2017 bursary recipients have so much talent and each of them has a real passion and determination to achieve their dreams. This entrepreneurial mind-set is something we really champion at Chivas Brothers, so it’s fantastic to be able to relieve some of the financial pressures that come with studying full time.”

Michael Ewart, director of SIET, a body which provides talented individuals with grants to complete further education studies, added: “This bursary is such a worthwhile initiative and we’re delighted to be able to support a second cohort of students on their education journey. The scheme shows Chivas Brothers’ dedication to championing the success of its employees and their family members.”