Running widow pays poignant tribute to Red Arrows husband

The widow of a Red Arrows pilot killed following an air display paid tribute to the crowds who supported her through The Great North Run yesterday.

Dr Emma Egging ran in memory of her husband, Flt Lt Jon Egging, who was killed when his jet came down when returning from Bournemouth Air Festival last month.

The 33-year-old died after making a dramatic attempt to steer his stricken Hawk away from nearby houses.

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He was the first Red Arrows pilot killed in a crash for 33 years.

Dr Egging, of Rutland, watched silently as the Red Arrows flew over the race’s start line in the “missing man” formation in honour of her husband.

She then joined more than 54,000 entrants in the famous half-marathon between Newcastle and South Shields, running with the number 4 on her back in a tribute to her husband who flew as “Red 4”.

Race organiser David Hart said: “It was an incredible day. There was upwards of 54,000 entrants, all of whom were running for their own particular reasons but the tribute by the Red Arrows to their fallen comrade and the part Emma played in that was probably the most emotional and moving moment in the race’s history.

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“She said she was absolutely bowled over by the support she received during the race and by what happened at the start. It undoubtedly helped to keep her going.”

Her husband’s friend, Squadron Leader Graeme Bagnall, who flies as Red 10, ran by her side during the race.

Mr Hart said: “The Red Arrows have become synonymous with the run over the last decade or so.

“It was fantastic to be able to welcome them back after such a traumatic time.”

Dr Egging, an academic at the British Museum, used the run to launch The Jon Egging Trust young people’s charity.