A man who was homeless but managed to turn his life around was named runner up of a royal award.

Charlie Pearce, from Plaistow, was determined to start over after reaching rock bottom and decided to join Team Newham, a 12-week Prince’s Trust programme run in partnership with Newham College.

The 28-year-old made such a good impression when he volunteered with the group that he was offered a full-time paid position.

He was awarded runner up of the HP Flying Start award in recognition of his hard work at the The Prince’s Trust & Samsung Celebrate Success Awards.

Team Newham 130 won the Morgan Stanley Community Impact award for the positive contribution its youngsters make.