YOUNGSTERS hoping to study medicine at university this autumn could win £500 towards the cost of their education.

The South West Durham branch of the British Medical Association is offering a student the cash prize towards their course fees, through an essay competition.

The competition, which is in its third year, is open to pupils in the area who have already been offered a place on a university course.

Students are invited to submit a 1,500 word essay with the title 'Why Study Medicine?'.

The winner will be the student who, in the opinion of the judges, makes the most convincing case for studying medicine in 2003. Entries for the contest must be received by Monday, September 8.

Dr Heather Smith, branch president, said: "By this date students will know their A-level grades and whether their place at medical school has been confirmed. The competition will only be open to students with a confirmed place, and sadly, we would not be able to accept entries from students who had a conditional place but did not reach the required grades.

"We hope that this will fire some young imaginations. We received no entries at all last year."

Entries should be sent to: Dr Heather Smith, Department of Paediatrics, Bishop Auckland General Hospital, Bishop Auckland, County Durham, DL14 7JS.

All entries must be clearly marked with the student's name, address, telephone number, school and the university where they will be studying.