Dozens of students have been given more than £640,000 in scholarships to help them further their education.

Eastern Daily Press: University of East Anglia vice-chancellor, professor David Richardson, and Rahad Abir, recipient of The Charles Pick South Asia Fellowship. Picture: University of East AngliaUniversity of East Anglia vice-chancellor, professor David Richardson, and Rahad Abir, recipient of The Charles Pick South Asia Fellowship. Picture: University of East Anglia (Image: Archant)

Sixty-six young people were given awards at this year's University of East Anglia Scholarships Reception, held last week, with more than a quarter coming from Norfolk and Suffolk.

The funding, donated by private supporters of the university, are a key feature of The Difference campaign, which was launched six years ago. It has so far supported more than 500 people and raised funds for medical research, climate change study and creativity.

Vice-chancellor professor David Richardson said: 'UEA scholarships are vital to improving access to university for talented students from less affluent backgrounds, as well as for those who excelled at undergraduate level and wish to pursue postgraduate studies.'

New awards this year include the Nick Hynes Scholarship, the Main Scholarship and the Lee Bray Scholarship.