MARGARET Pearson, retired chief executive of the Kent Education Business Partnership (KEPB), has come forward to do more good work for young people.

She has agreed to become chairman of a new area board for The Prince's Trust in Kent and Medway.

The former teacher was a passionate battler for improved links between business and schools during her time at KEBP.

She said she had been tempted by the new opportunity while she still had good contacts in the business and education communities.

The Prince's Trust, founded by Prince Charles, was at an exciting new phase in its development and she was happy to be involved in these changes.

"It just seems so exciting that we've got this chance to put all these opportunities together and provide them for young people," she said.

"My priorities are to promote all our programmes to organisations in Kent and Medway who are in contact with these young people.

"In addition, I want to be able to recruit more volunteers to help deliver our work on the ground, as well as encourage companies and individuals to support us financiall, so we can make a difference to the futures of young people who need our help the most."

The Trust in Kent and Medway will be in charge of eight programmes, including business and volunteers. Several are targeted at disadvantaged young people.

The Trust has helped hundreds of young entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 30 set up in business with grants and loans after they were turned down by the banks.

Terry Ryall, the Trust's south east regional director, said: "New projects that we will be launching include our xl programme for 14-16 years olds who are not doing as well as they could and are in danger of being excluded from school.

"Margaret has the experience to ensure that the Trust will be even more successful in Kent and Medway. Her enthusiasm, contacts, expertise and sense of fun are just what we need at this time of change."