The founder of a local charity has been commended for his work in the community by a soup company.

Ben Stone, founder and chief executive of the Anchorage Trust has been named East Anglia's 'Souper Star' by New Covent Garden Soup, a nationwide competition for people who do excellent work in their communities.

The company launched a search for people who go above and beyond to help others, asking its customers to nominate people they felt were deserving.

After being put forward by a fellow local, Mr Stone was selected by judges and will now go through to compete against 11 others at an awards dinner this month.

Mr Stone said: 'I am totally taken aback by this amazing nomination and it serves as a huge thank you and boost to our young people who I am inspired by every day and to our incredible trustees and volunteers.'

If named overall 'Souper Star', Mr Stone will receive a £2,500 donation to the charity and £2,500 of gift card vouches to treat himself as well.