Year Since Death Of Red Arrows Pilot

The wife of a Red Arrows pilot killed in an air show at Bournemouth last year has paid tribute to him on the first anniversary of his death.

Flight Lieutenant Jon Egging, 33, was killed when his Hawk T1 aircraft crashed during a display at Bournemouth Air Festival last August.

His wife Dr Emma Egging and the pilot's family thanked well-wishers for their support over the last 12 months.

A statement released on the Red Arrows website said: ''Jon Egging's family and friends would like to extend their heartfelt thanks for the kindness that has been shown towards them over the past year.''

Dr Egging said: ''Jon will always be in our hearts and sorely missed. Please help us take Jon's positive ethos for life forward by supporting the work of the Jon Egging Trust which was set up in his memory.''

The trust aims to help young people aged between 13 and 21 to develop life skills and accredited training.

Speaking on behalf of the Red Arrows team, Squadron Leader Jim Turner said: ''A year ago today, our friend and team-mate Jon Egging tragically lost his life at Bournemouth Air Festival.

''Our thoughts and prayers remain with Jon's family on the first anniversary of his death.''

The Red Arrows are due to return to this year's Bournemouth Air Festival, taking place between August 30 and September 1.

An inquest into Flt Lt Egging's death was opened at East Dorset Coroner's Court in Bournemouth last year and adjourned until a later date for a full hearing.

A memorial to the 33-year-old will be unveiled overlooking Bournemouth beach this month.

The sculpture of three jets climbing into the sky was designed by two schoolchildren; it'll be unveiled at East Cliff in time for this year's festival.

Leader of the Council Cllr John Beesley said,

“We are right on schedule to have the Memorial in place in time for this year’s Air Festival.

"I am delighted that local children were able to provide the inspiration for the design and now get to see their ideas become a reality.

"It will be a very special spot and a fitting tribute.”