BBC News Online: UK

BBC sets up Dando bursary

The corporation says it will fund a bursary in broadcast journalism at a Falmouth college as a "living tribute" to the murdered television presenter.

Miss Dando was shot on the doorstep of her home in Fulham, south west London, on 26 April last year.
Her killer has never been found.

Announcing the bursary, BBC Director of Television Alan Yentob said: "Jill had such a profound effect, not just on viewers but on her friends and colleagues, that we wanted to do something very special to honour her memory.

"By founding this bursary in her name, we have created a lasting, living tribute to Jill."

Miss Dando had strong professional and personal links to south west England and successful applicants for the bursary will be expected to have lived or studied there.

As well as funding the course, the BBC will also offer the journalist work experience in television and radio.

Dr Denis Gartside, of Falmouth College of Arts, said the bursary would be awarded to a student who displayed excellent interpersonal skills, drive and resilience, and an unwavering commitment to journalism.

"In short, someone with the kind of talents and qualities for which Jill was renowned," he said.

Two weeks ago Miss Dando's fiance Alan Farthing appealed for £5m to establish a crime research centre in her name at University College, London.

The appeal was backed by the Countess of Wessex, Sir Cliff Richard and Miss Dando's co-presenter on Crimewatch Nick Ross.