A HEREFORDSHIRE forestry apprentice's career is off to a flying start after being awarded a Randle Travel Bursary from the Royal Forestry Society (RFS).
James Varden, 20, of Westgate, Leominster, is completing his apprenticeship this summer with a NVQ level three in Forestry and Arboriculture through Herefordshire College of Technology's Holme Lacey College, and a placement with Poplar Tree Company, based in Madley.
The award of the bursary means he is also now planning to extend his studies by attending the Elmia Wood Show in Sweden and then flying to Canada where he hopes for hands-on forestry experience before returning to the Poplar Tree Company to take up a full time job offer.
James, who won the RFS Herefordshire Division's George Clive Memorial Award as the 'most conscientious student' on his level two course, said: "I am thrilled to have this opportunity so early in my career to see how foresters in Sweden and Canada work and I hope that will be useful as I start my career with the Poplar Tree Company."
The company grows poplar plant material for sale from its registered nurseries and provides information on tree
planting including helping farmers diversify into woodlands.
James was among four people to receive the bursary awards this year. The RFS supports those promoting wise management of trees by sharing knowledge to inform how woods are managed now and in the future.