A Bath University post-graduate student with a history in anti-pollution work has won a £7000 bursary to gain specialist environmental engineering skills.

Andrew Crosby's career in environmental engineering and innovative plans for a recycling website gained him trust backing for a multimedia technology masters degree.

Mr Crosby said: "There are a few websites set up to trade in packaging waste, hardcore and solvents, but there is little quality control. I have ideas to tackle this but I need the technical skills this course will give me."

Set up two years ago, the trust is run in partnership with the Royal Academy of Engineering and it's aim is to bring specialist skills into business.

Trustee Chairman Robin Bond said that Mr Crosby qualified because of his experience in using engineering skills to protect the environment. He was one of five winners selected from 30 finalists.

Mr Bond said: "This year's winners follow in the path of the first batch of Panasonic fellows who have recently graduated with distinction."

Mr Crosby has worked for Greenpeace assessing water management at the Homebush Bay Olympic Park and reviewed waste production and disposal in Northern Ireland.