TELEVISION presenter and Colchester boy Dermot O’Leary has become a patron of St Helena Hospice.

The former X Factor host and Radio 2 DJ knew all about the charity’s work before taking on his latest role.

He said: “It is an honour to become a patron of St Helena Hospice.

“The charity is an institution in Colchester and north-east Essex, and anyone who lives there has heard of it, and knows the great work they do.

“I hope we can continue to raise awareness of their invaluable services and raise much-needed funds towards the care of their patients and families.”

The hospice’s chief executive Mark Jarman-Howe added: “We would like to thank Dermot O’Leary for taking on the role of patron at St Helena Hospice.

“It is particularly heart-warming to announce such fantastic news in our 30th year.

“We are delighted to have the support of such a well-respected and community-minded individual.”

Dermot recently ruled himself out joining Chris Evans as a presenter of the new Top Gear.