May 22, 2014 4.05 pm This story is over 117 months old

Professor Brian Cox becomes patron to Jon Egging Trust

Inspiring patron: The Jon Egging Trust has gained a new patron, known for his work in teaching physics.

Popular university professor and presenter of numerous science documentaries Brian Cox has become patron of Lincolnshire’s Jon Egging Trust.

His enthusiasm and ways of inspiring young generations mades him the ideal patron for the Trust’s Blue Skies programme.

The programme, set up by the charity after the death of Red Arrows pilot Flt Lt Jon Egging, aims to help young people reach their full potential and achieve a brighter future.

The charity believes role models linked to aviation, engineering and science such as Professor Brian Cox can help inspire and support young people before they become another statistic of those not in education, employment or training.

The Trust was set up support Jon Egging’s dream of helping young people to overcome adversity and work towards their ambitions.

Over the next two years, the Trust is also looking at expanding its operations to nine other counties across the UK, and by 2020 hopes to inspire thousands more youngsters each year.

Professor Brian Cox will join Air Vice Marshal Stuart Atha as the charity’s second patron.

Professor Cox said: “I am delighted to become a Patron of the Jon Egging Trust, and I strongly support the amazing work the charity does to help young people move forward in their lives.

“Inspiring and enthusing the next generation to be the best they can be is something I’m passionate about, and I believe that the worlds of aviation, engineering and science together can do that.

“I look forward to helping the Trust to expand nationwide and reach as many young people as possible.”

Dr Emma Egging, Jon’s wife and co-founder of the Trust: “I am so pleased to welcome Professor Brian Cox to the Jon Egging Trust team as our patron.

“Inspiration is at the heart of everything the Jon Egging Trust does. With the help of Professor Cox we really can show our young people that they too can reach for the stars.”