21 young people receive Duke of Edinburgh Memorial Bursaries

THE celebration event for Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council’s fourth annual Duke of Edinburgh Legacy Bursary Scheme was held at Theatre at The Mill on Wednesday (7 January).

Lord-Lieutenant of County Antrim, Mr David McCorkell KStJ, joined the Mayor, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, to present certificates and £1,000 bursaries to each of the 21 participants who successfully completed the programme.

This year’s scheme began with a team-building day in August 2025, followed by weekly sessions every Wednesday night over a 12-week period, from September to early December.

Participants engaged in a wide range of activities, including volunteering, coding and business, archery, photography, fitness, environmental awareness, nutrition, drama, and money management.

The programme also focused on personal development topics such as mental health, drugs and alcohol awareness, and fostering good relations.

The bursaries awarded will be used to purchase equipment such as laptops, cameras, sporting equipment and musical instruments, and to fund training that will help participants improve their skills in areas like driving, photography, tutoring, and music.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, is also Chair of the Working Group, commented:

“I’m delighted to celebrate the success of this year’s participants. I originally proposed the Bursary, so it’s wonderful to see how successful it has become and how many young people have benefitted from it.

“This year 21 participants completed the scheme, bringing the total alumni to 80.

“The programme continues to help young people build skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose for the future.”

The Duke of Edinburgh Legacy Bursary Scheme will relaunch in April.