7 May 2021 

Four Fife College students have become the first students to be awarded a special scholarship created in memory of former lecturer Colin Somerville.

The Colin Somerville Scholarship was created last year following the passing of the popular broadcaster, journalist, presenter and producer who had a huge impact during his time at the College as a radio production lecturer.

Previously a music controller and presenter on Radio Forth, Colin spent six years as a presenter with the BBC before joining the College. He was also previously Entertainment Editor for the Edinburgh Evening News and reviewed music for various other national titles including The Herald.

Colin’s students loved to hear his life stories, anecdotes and laughter as he inspired the next generation of media stars. In May 2020, at the age of just 62, Colin very sadly passed away after suffering from dementia.

Set up by Colin’s friends and colleagues in the Faculty of Creative Industries, the scholarship aims to support new talent just as he did throughout his life and career.  

Luke Andrews (27) from Glenrothes, Martin Blair (37) from Inverurie, David Forsyth (37) from Glenrothes and Molly Russell (20) from Dunfermline were all delighted to be named as the first winners of the scholarship.  

HNC Media and Communications student, Molly, said:

“I was so excited to hear I had been awarded this special scholarship which will be a great support for me. I can’t wait to use my award to help buy a printer which will really benefit my studies and also my future portfolio.”

Colin's son, Joe Somerville, said: "I am so pleased to hear the scholarship has been a success, it’s an incredible thing and he would be fair chuffed."

Stewart McDonald, Acting Director of Creative Industries at Fife College said: 

“Colin was a very well respected, knowledgeable and connected broadcaster and journalist. Incisive, witty and downright sarcastic, he touched and collaborated with so many people throughout his career.

“Our radio students and his colleagues adored him, his life stories, anecdotes and laughter. The scholarship, will help support the next generation of radio talents just as Colin did throughout his career, and is the most fitting way to celebrate his legacy.

“Congratulations to our first winners, Luke, Martin, David and Molly. The scholarship awards will be a great help for them as they continue their journey towards what I’m sure will be interesting and fulfilling careers in media and broadcasting.”

The Adam Smith Foundation is Fife College’s scholarship programme and awards thousands of pounds each year to support students, develop opportunities, open doors and transform lives.

Full list of Colin Somerville Scholarship recipients:

  • Luke Andrews from Leslie, Glenrothes (27) – NC Media Broadcasting
  • Martin Blair from Inverurie, Aberdeenshire (37) – HND Radio Podcasting
  • David Forsyth from Markinch, Glenrothes (37) – HND Radio Production
  • Molly Russell from Dunfermline (20) – HNC Media and Communications

For further details about scholarships at Fife College visit the Adam Smith Foundation page or email scholarships@fife.ac.uk.