Ross Brawn joins fundraising initiative by SKIDZ

The launch of a major fundraising initiative by the SKIDZ Motor Projects charity on Thursday 25 June will see the announcement that Brawn GP Team Principal Ross Brawn has become a Patron of the Wycombe Motor Project.

Joined as a Patron by former rally driver Paddy Hopkirk and Mike Clare, founder of the UK bed giant Dreams, Ross is delighted to become involved with SKIDZ and a passionate supporter of providing opportunities for young people to learn practical motor mechanic skills, having begun his Formula One career as a machinist in 1976.

The SKIDZ Motor Projects charity provides opportunities for disadvantaged young people to gain vocational motor trade skills and access to courses in motor engineering in an adult work-style environment, providing qualifications as well as experience of the world of work.

Currently based in rented premises, SKIDZ aims to raise almost £1million to purchase a self-contained property for the Wycombe Motor Project. In the new premises, SKIDZ will be able to offer an improved service to the area’s youngsters plus a much wider range of opportunities and better facilities. The charity will become more financially viable, have security of tenure and be able to invest in a stronger future.

Ross Brawn commented: “I am delighted to become a Patron of the SKIDZ Motor Projects charity and to lend my support to their fundraising campaign for new premises for the Wycombe Motor Project. Having started my career in Formula One as a machinist and mechanic with the Williams Grand Prix team back in the 1970s, I am a passionate supporter of providing opportunities for young people to learn practical motor trade skills and have the opportunity to become involved in and develop a passion for motorsport. Practical experience is key to getting the best possible grounding in the motor trade and this is where SKIDZ really makes a difference to the future prospects for the young people involved. Along with my work with Formula Student and F1 in Schools, I hope that my involvement in SKIDZ can make a real difference. The enthusiasm and commitment that I have seen at the Wycombe Motor Project fills me with optimism for the future of science and engineering in this country.”

For further information on SKIDZ Motor Projects, please visit www.skidz.org.uk