Tom Sheppard from Sturminster Marshall has been given a helping hand towards a career in music.

Aged 17, he has won the 2021 Dee Butterfield Scholarship for Young People. He was presented with a cheque for £250 by Professor Ryan Lavelle following his recent Mackrell Charity Memorial lecture on ‘The Battle of Hastings’.

“I have always loved music,” said Tom, “so I jumped at an opportunity to learn the saxophone. Seven years later, I’m still enjoying it and have found it an excellent way to relieve stress from schoolwork. I am incredibly thankful for the Dee Butterfield Scholarship.”

He will put the money from the scholarship towards a new saxophone.

Tom, who is currently studying for his A Levels at Queen Elizabeth School, Wimborne, is involved in a number of school bands and has participated in many performances, including playing at the Swanage Jazz Festival.

Katy Norman from the Mackrell Charity said: “Tom is a talented and committed musician and the charity is delighted to be able to make a contribution to the future of this aspiring young man.”

The annual scholarship was set up in memory of Dee Butterfield, the charity’s former president and inspiration, to provide an opportunity for a young person to pursue a personal ambition.

Young people aged 11-19 on 1 September 2022, resident in, or with a loose connection to the parish of Sturminster Marshall are encouraged to apply for the award next year.

Applications should be in the form of a letter detailing the activity the applicant wishes to pursue and should be accompanied by a letter or reference from a teacher or similar person. Applications must be received by midnight on 30 June 2022 and should be sent to: The Mackrell Charity, c/o The Old School, Church Street, Sturminster Marshall, BH21 4BU.