AN inspirational young man has thanked reality TV star Peter Andre after he helped to transform his home with a surprise makeover.

Jack Payne, 20, a trainee mechanic at Severalls MoT Centre, in Colchester, is the sole carer for his three siblings after his mum Helen, aged 43, died of cancer in May last year.

He lives at home with his sisters Francesca, 13, and Charlotte, 10, and brother Billy, 11.

He was nominated to take part in ITV show Peter Andre’s 60 Minute Makeover.

He said: “It was really difficult after mum died.

“The programme happened a year after, and I am grateful they were able to do this.

“There are many things we can’t afford to have done. It seems a bit more like home now.”

The show sees a team of decorators working against the clock to make over a house in an hour while the owners are away.

Deserving people who have been through a tough time are secretly nominated.

Crews with vans full of filming equipment, furniture and tools took over the road to allow the filming of the show.

Mr Andre and his team redecorated rooms at the house in Hazelton Road, Colchester, last May.

The front room and a bedroom at the property were designed by TV interior designer Linda Barker.

Neighbours were told about the show beforehand and were asked if the crew could use their driveways.

Crowds gathered to get a glimpse of Mr Andre, and police attended to ensure the road was not blocked.

Jack believes a family friend nominated him for the surprise makeover.

He said: “I didn’t know it was happening. Then Peter was down here and it kind of all sunk in.”