BASILDON'S own Eastenders superfan has revealed that he has spent £5,000 transforming his home into a shrine in tribute to his favourite character Ben Mitchell.

Unemployed Shaun Smith has decorated his bedroom, hallway, kitchen and living room with memorabilia depicting Albert Square actor Harry Reid's face.

Mr Smith, 48, said the character of Ben Mitchell, who has come out as gay on the soap, has helped him with his own journey of being gay, boosting his self-esteem and confidence.

He has splashed out on personalised mugs, key rings, pens, cushions, bags, blankets, bed covers and even clothes.

He is well-known for going shopping in Basildon town centre in a onesie covered in Ben Mitchell's face.

Mr Smith's bedroom is even covered with pictures of the 24-year-old character, which he has printed off himself after taking screen shots of every Eastenders episode which features the character.

He said that many of the items of memorabilia he has made or decorated himself.

Mr Smith, a former chef, said he loves finding new things to personalise.

He said: "I have only been collecting for about seven or eight months since my mum died. She left me her house and I sold her house and I came into a bit of money, so I decided to start a collection.

"The part Harry plays of Ben is inspirational.

"I can really relate to him, he has helped me a lot through my journey.

"As time has moved on since coming out, Ben doesn't care who likes him being gay or not and I look up to that.

"Ben's storyline has made me come out of myself more. I now feel more confident in being gay.

"I just wanted to do something to show what he has done for me - it is an appreciation.

"He has made me a better person. Nobody realises what he has done for me."

Mr Smith said his partner has been incredibly supportive but prefers Eastenders' Lee Carter, instead of Ben Mitchell.

He added that it would be his dream to one day meet Harry Reid, who has played Ben's character on the soap since 2014, and have his picture taken with him.

He said: "I have never met him but I would love to. I would shake his hand and say thank you, that would mean the world to me to do that.

"I have never sent him any fan mail because I am too nervous."

Do you have any crazy collections or weird obsessions? Get in touch with the Echo on 01268 469303.