Stocks Massey Bequest 2026

Applications to the Stocks Massey Bequest for 2026 are now being invited.

​The deadline for submission of applications to the Stocks Massey Bequest is 5PM on Friday 22nd of May 2026.

What is the Stocks Massey Bequest?
Edward Stocks Massey left a large sum of money in his will for the benefit of the inhabitants of Burnley. This sum was invested by the then corporation (now Burnley Borough Council) and has been maintained by trustees over the years to allow an annual sum of money to be granted to Burnley residents to advance the arts in the borough.

The annual income was originally divided between the Municipal Orchestra, Towneley Hall, and education grants to local individuals.

Burnley currently has the Edward Stocks Massey Gallery at Towneley Hall, and the Massey Music Library at Burnley Central Library, both of which were funded by the grant.

​Who is eligible to apply to this fund?
The grant is available to individuals and organisations in the town for education, the advancement of science, learning music and other arts within the borough.

There are also two Higher Education Student Support Scholarships available each year to assist young people of Burnley who have gone into further education in the borough, and who have achieved a place at a higher education institution.

How do I apply?
An application must be completed and submitted by the application deadline. The application form can be downloaded at the bottom of this page.

The deadline for submission of applications to the Stocks Massey Bequest is 5PM on Friday 22nd of May 2026.

Please note that an application that meets the relevant criteria of the bequest is no guarantee that an award will be made; grants awarded in previous years are also no guarantee of future awards and a previous unsuccessful application does not prevent any future applications being considered.

Please also note that bequest funds for distribution are limited.

Click the button below for more information and to download an application form.

Apply