EastEnders' Ben Mitchell shrine created by Basildon man

A man has said he was inspired to create a £5,000 shrine to EastEnders' Ben Mitchell after the soap character helped him come to terms with his sexuality.

Shaun Smith, 48, from Basildon, said he was moved by the storyline featuring actor Harry Reid on the BBC One show.

He said the character's openness about his homosexuality prompted the collection, as reported by the Basildon Echo, external.

Mr Smith hopes his own story will inspire others to come to terms with their insecurities.