Ms Leckie is at Lincoln University, studying for a science degree in environmental sciences, Ms McNish is pursuing a Certificate in Social Work at the Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology and Mr Chappell has begun an arts degree in politics and philososphy at the University of Canterbury.

The awards are worth $6000 a year for up to four years study in a subject which is relevant to a career in local government and, wherever possible, the Council will offer the students holiday work and a job at the Council when their studies are finished.

Mr Close was a City Councillor for 23 years and the Council set up the awards to recognise his example of public service and encourage young people to emulate him. The awards are open to any young resident who has gained entry to Canterbury or Lincoln universities or the CPIT.

The 2003 winners will be formally congratulated by Mayor Garry Moore at a ceremony in the Civic Offices on Tuam Street at 10am on 31 July.