THE Trustees of the Ian Bell Foundation were delighted to present the 2006 bursary of £1,000 to 22-year-old Natasha Phillips, of Solva, at the Fourcroft Hotel, Tenby, last Thursday.

Natasha, who is currently studying for a BA in tourism studies at UWIC, attended St. David's School, before continuing to Pembrokeshire College where she studied tourism and travel at AVEC level. Deciding to further her academic career at UWIC, she successfully completed her HND in tourism management last summer before embarking on her current course.

On attaining her degree, Natasha hopes to stay in Wales and work within the promotion and marketing sectors of the tourism industry. The Ian Bell Bursary endeavours to assist a young person wishing to forge a career in either the tourism or hospitality industries.

For 2006, applications were welcomed from candidates studying tourism or hospitality at HND, degree or post graduate level.

Special consideration was given to applicants with an interest in the marketing of tourism to commemorate Ian's considerable contribution in the promotion of Wales as a leading destination worldwide.

With the proviso that all applicants' main residence should be in Wales, the Trust is particularly pleased that, this year, the award has been given to a student from Pembrokeshire and wishes Natasha continued success with her ongoing studies and in her future career in the tourism industry.