An educational charity founded by a Cumbrian teenager has appointed a globally recognised scientist as its first patron.

Another Way, which was founded by 17-year old Amy Bray, from Matterdale, near Ullswater, has announced the appointment of Dr Alan Jamieson.

Dr Jamieson is a senior lecturer in deep-sea biology at Newcastle University and is also the Chief Scientist on the 5-Deeps Expedition, the world’s first manned expedition to the deepest point in each of the five oceans.

He has participated in, and often led, over 60 deep-sea expeditions covering every ocean in the world, with his discoveries receiving international recognition - in particular his work on the discovery microplastics particles and fibres residing within organisms from the deepest places on Earth.

His work has featured in the BBC’s Blue Planet II, NHK’s Deep Ocean, Descent into the Mariana Trench documentaries and the forthcoming Discovery Channel’s Deep Planet series.

Another Way aims to help people change their behaviour for the good of themselves and the planet by providing environmental conservation education to the public.

Dr Jamieson said: “I support Another Way as it demonstrates that when one individual decides to make a difference, all those who follow can make an even bigger difference. Big changes will only happen when we all decide we want it to happen and not simply waiting for others to tell us so.

“Another Way challenges you to take control of the big environmental issues of our era. Sustainability requires all of us to act and not simply wait until someone else intervenes. Some of these challenges are easy, some of them are hard, but it is only when we all start adopting the vision of Another Way that a sustainable and prosperous future will be attained.”

Amy said: “Another Way’s educational approach to encouraging sustainable lifestyles is based on science. We have heard, and believe, the science. Our focus is to ensure we have the latest information upon which to develop our programmes and projects. Having Dr Alan Jamieson on board as our first patron allows us to maintain this science-based focus. We are extremely honoured.”