Ross Brawn is to become the patron of the SKIDZ Motor Projects charity, as it sets about a big £1 million fund-raising initiative.
SKIDZ provides opportunities for disadvantaged children to gain motor trade skills, plus experience in motor engineering.
Brawn hopes his involvement helps the charity raise the funds for its Wycombe Motor Project, which will allow it to purchase its own premises and guarantee it a more secure future.
"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," said Brawn.
"Having started my career in Formula 1 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."
Rally legend Paddy Hopkirk is also a patron of the charity. Further details of SKIDZ can be found at
http://www.skidz.org.uk/