The SCOLLAR Trust was pleased to announce that from the 29th of January 2007, Dame Helen Mirren joined as the Trust's new patron, joining Lord Petre, Lord Lieutenant of Essex.

Dame Helen, who grew up in Southend and went to a local girls' school, has pledged her patronage which will help raise the profile of The SCOLLAR Trust. Dame Helen said: "Many congratulations to The SCOLLAR Trust on their achievements this year. I am proud to be a patron. This work is very important in its investment in the future of Great Britain. Let's help The SCOLLAR Trust to go from strength to strength."

"We are delighted that Dame Helen and Lord Petre have pledged their names to support our charity. Obviously, their local links go back a long way and both care a great deal about education. Their support will help raise the profile of our charity and generate funds to ensure that everybody gets the educational opportunities they deserve. We thank them for their generosity and support."