A Kenilworth charity with a history that dates back over 300 years is reaching out to local youngsters to offer them support.

The William Edwards Educational Charity (WEEC) has an endowment of around £10 million to support people under the age of 25 in Kenilworth with their education.

Youngsters are eligible to receive assistance grants to cover anything from uniforms and books to undergraduate degree expenses and postgraduate bursaries.

The charity also supports schools in Kenilworth, with donations covering minibuses, computers, and resources to support learning.

The charity donated more than £300,000 to schools last year and regularly aids more than 200 people each year with individual grants.

WEEC was formed following the death of notable surgeon Dr William Edwards in 1723.

Born in 1659, Edwards lived in Kenilworth, working as a surgeon and bone setter.

He acquired wealth through his profession and his associations with local trade - including Guys Cliffe and Gipley Mills - and land ownership.

In September 1698 his wife, Hester, died shortly after childbirth together with their son. He subsequently married widow Mary Bree of Beausale who had children from her previous husband.

According to the charity, there is no record Edwards had any further children.

Upon his death in 1723, he made a "provision for the funding and support of schools in Kenilworth and Hatton," with his wealth allowing him to support education.

There is a memorial to Dr Edwards at the Old School House at the junction between Barrowell and Barrowfield Lane which was erected in 1724 and bears a commemorative plaque.

The charity said: "Any person or school seeking assistance should contact the solicitor / clerk to the charity for an appropriate application form or to make further enquiries: Mr J M P Hathaway, 42 Brook Street Warwick CV34 4BL, 01926 492407, [email protected]"