YOUNG dance students have been invited to apply for a scholarship set up in memory of the late former Mid-Ocean News reporter Patricia Calnan.

The Bermuda Ballet Association announced this week it would be offering the Patricia Calnan Memorial Awards this year for the second time.

Ms Calnan was a founder member of the Association, which was founded in 1962 to promote the art of dance by providing scholarships to talented dancers from all schools on the island.

The organisation has helped many young dancers with scholarships to attend some of the world's most prestigious dance institutions.

Sallie Singleton, who chairs the Association's Scholarship Committee, said: "It is hard to believe that it has been almost two years since Patricia died. She has left a great void, not only in our lives, but in the entire arts community.

"For the past two years we have chosen to recognise her contribution to the arts by offering the Patricia Calnan Memorial Awards. Patricia's family and friends have generously donated to this fund again this year to assist talented young Bermudian dancers to study on the island and abroad.

"Last year, seven young dancers from each of the island's dance schools received scholarships, which shows that the Ballet Association is indeed an umbrella organisation for all dance students on the island."

The Association will be raising funds this weekend with an evening boat cruise on Sunday.

Students are asked to fax 234-3830 to request an application form, or write to the Bermuda Ballet Association at PO Box HM 661, Hamilton HM CX. The deadline for applications in June 11 at 5 p.m.