THE details of a poignant fundraising event in memory of the Red Arrows pilot who lost his life at last year’s Bournemouth Air Festival have been revealed.

The inaugural event for the Jon Egging Trust, which was set up in memory of Red 4, whose Hawk jet crashed near Throop following a display at the festival, will be a ball at the BIC during this year’s event.

The Red Ball takes place on Friday, August 31, and hopes to attract 600 people, with special guests including the Red Arrows.

Flt Lt Ben Plank, Red Arrows pilot and trustee, said: “On behalf of the Red Arrows I would like to say how much we are looking forward to supporting the inaugural Jon Egging Trust Red Ball, which is a hugely worthwhile cause close to our hearts.”

The Red Ball will be hosted by TV presenter Carol Vorderman and will showcase an evening of top-class entertainment, champagne reception and a three-course dinner prepared and served by BH Live Hospitality.

Highlights include an auction offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences and items, including the rare opportunity to fly in a former Red Arrows Gnat aircraft, flown until 1978 by Red One.

There will also be behind-the-scenes experience days with the current Royal Air Force Red Arrows team, along with other Red Arrows paraphernalia.

James Godley, trustee for the Jon Egging Trust and Red Ball organiser, said: “All proceeds from The Red Ball will go towards the Jon Egging Trust, a charity set up in memory of Red Arrows pilot Jon Egging to provide young people with new opportunities to help them achieve their potential.

“Having successfully piloted the Blue Skies scheme in Lincolnshire, the Jon Egging Trust is currently working to expand the programme nationwide, including working with young people from Bournemouth and connecting with military bases in the Dorset area.

“The Red Ball at the Bournemouth International Centre will help us to raise funds and expand this exciting and life-changing programme to make a difference to the lives of young people.”

For more information about Red Ball sponsorship opportunities, including auction prize donations visit joneggingtrust.org.uk.

To buy tickets for The Red Ball, visit bhlivetickets.co.uk or phone BH Live Tickets on 0844 576 3000.