Scheme set up in memory of former Manchester United director passes important landmark

Last week marked the first anniversary of the Maurice Watkins Rising Stars Bursary.

The ambitious bursary scheme was established in memory of former Manchester United director and Brabners partner Maurice Watkins CBE.

Local professionals and dignitaries attended the event which included a keynote speech from the Lord Mayor, Cllr Yasmine Dar. Attendees also heard first-hand from students about their involvement in the scheme and how it has supported them.

Brabners, of which Maurice was a long-standing partner and head of sports law, has committed to providing £30,000 of support over three years to young Mancunians from disadvantaged backgrounds pursuing a career in law. The bursary is administered in partnership with We Love MCR, through the Manchester charity’s unique Rising Stars Fund.

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Leanne Instrall, social mobility lead at Brabners, said: "The legal profession remains somewhat behind the curve on equality, diversity and inclusion, and it is important that we do all that is within our power to address the issue by providing opportunities and support to young people starting out in law.

"Maurice’s legal career was greatly assisted by a full scholarship to Manchester Grammar. That’s why the bursary is such a fitting way to remember him.

"It’s been a real pleasure to see the difference the bursary has made this year, as part of our wider approach to social mobility, and I hope it inspires other young people from across Manchester to apply for support."

Budding law professionals aged 15-22 living in Manchester can apply for grant money to help cover