Three Fife College students were awarded scholarships from world-famous author Ian Rankin.
It was a “dream come true” for HND Journalism students Taylor Sneddon, 18, James Cowan, 18, and James Jones, 26, when they met the Cardenden-born author and each received a £600 award, managed by the Adam Smith Foundation, the charitable trust of Fife College.
Applicants to the Ian Rankin Writing Scholarship, which was open to all Fife College students studying HNC/D practical journalism, HND television, HND radio and NC media production, each had to submit a peace of creative writing to be read and judged by the Rebus author himself.
“I have a young son and juggling study with family life has been hard,” said Taylor, from Kirkcaldy.
“Meeting Ian was a dream come true and this award will help me to achieve my goals for the future.”
The scholarship, in its 10th year, aims to give students some important recognition to help them secure future study, employment opportunities and provide extra financial support.
James Jones, from Dunkeld, said: “To meet Ian and win an award in his name is a great feeling. The award will be really useful in allowing me to buy a new laptop and help fund my travel to college.”
James Cowan, Dalgety Bay, said: “It was great to hear Ian’s feedback and this award will support me if I go on to university or the workplace”
Mr Rankin, whose latest novel, Saints of the Shadow Bible, was published last year, said: “I really enjoyed meeting the students and reading their work.
“They had all written excellent short stories, which I have promised I won’t steal.”