The founder of an Ipswich-based organisation which helps veterans returning to civilian life said he was “honoured” to be recognised by the Prime Minister as he stood amongst a crowd.

Nigel Seaman is the founder of Combat2Coffee, based in Northgate Street in Ipswich.

Mr Seaman created the social enterprise in 2018 with the goal of helping former veterans and uniformed personnel in need of support adapting to life outside the forces, particularly those struggling with their mental health.

On Friday, Mr Seaman was invited to the RAF Museum in London for the launch of OP PROSPER. This is a government-run scheme aimed at supporting veterans into work after their time in the Armed Forces has ended.

The service, announced by PM Rishi Sunak and Veterans Affairs Minister Johnny Mercer, is aimed at encouraging more businesses to hire ex-servicemen and women.

Mr Seaman was amazed to be recognised in the crowd by Mr Sunak following his announcement, while the PM’s wife, Akshata Murty, said she would love to visit Combat2Coffee’s roastery and training academy in Ipswich.

Ipswich Star: L-R: Ren Kapur MBE, the Prime Minister's wife Akshata Murty and Nigel Seaman of Combat2Coffee. Image: Combat2CoffeeL-R: Ren Kapur MBE, the Prime Minister's wife Akshata Murty and Nigel Seaman of Combat2Coffee. Image: Combat2Coffee (Image: Combat2Coffee)

Mr Seaman said: “It was an honour to be invited to this event – and even more so to be recognised by the Prime Minister, who I had previously met at a business breakfast event in Ipswich.

“Ms Murty was a pleasure to speak to and we had a great chat about coffee. I asked her if we could send her some of our coffee and she said no – because she wants to come to Ipswich to taste it at our roastery!

“It was a real privilege, and we would love to welcome her to Suffolk.”

He added: “Hiring a veteran can be the most rewarding thing your business ever does. Just like with the Armed Forces Covenant, we will champion OP PROSPER and its message.”