The BBC's face of Formula One and well-known Norfolk boy Jake Humphrey has stepped up his role with a regional charity to become its first patron.

The former Framingham Earl High School pupil has been an ambassador for support charity Break since 2009 and has championed and promoted its work with his celebrity clout. He has also taken time out during return visits to his home county to meet with the very people Break helps.

But he is now formalising his support for the charity by stepping up to become its first ever patron and will be officially associated to its work and future projects.

And it is hoped his new position will help raise more awareness of the charity, which supports children, young people and families through a number of services including a network of children's homes, therapeutic foster care and mentoring schemes.

Charity trustees invited the sports presenter to become Break's first patron and Mr Humphrey said he was 'incredibly proud' to step into the role.

Chris Hoddy, chief executive of the Sheringham-based charity, was thrilled to have him on board in his new capacity.

He added: 'We are delighted that Jake has agreed to become Break's patron. He has been a superb advocate and supporter of our work, making time to meet with the children and young people as well as wherever possible, helping to raise much needed funds for Break.'