Combat2Coffee's Nigel Seaman from Ipswich at Downing Street

Nigel Seaman, 48, founder of Combat2Coffee in Northgate Street, was invited to Tuesday’s Local Veteran Champions’ Reception by the town’s MP Tom Hunt, alongside fellow veterans from across the country.

Founded in 2019, Combat2Coffee offers mental health support to veterans, prisoners and their families to help them return to civilian life.

It is the brainchild of Mr Seaman, who is a former Royal Anglian infantryman and prison officer and who has experienced post-traumatic stress disorder since he left the army in 2004.

Nigel Seaman and MP Tom Hunt attended the Downing Street event (Image: Combat2Coffee)

"It was a genuine privilege to have been invited to Downing Street and speak about the things that truly matter to us veterans," said Mr Seaman.

"Mr John Mercer (Minister of State) came straight to talk to me as soon as he arrived – and it is amazing to think the Combat2Coffee story has made its way to Whitehall. He even offered to help serve our coffee at a future event!"

Ipswich MP Mr Hunt has supported Mr Seaman and Combat2Coffee since being elected in 2019 and has raised points on veterans’ affairs on the veteran's behalf in the House of Commons.

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He said: "Nigel is a shining example of a man who has dedicated his life to not only serving our country, but supporting his fellow heroes too.

"His story is nothing short of inspiring and I am so proud of everything he has achieved with Combat2Coffee to date."

Mr Seaman began suffering from depression, anxiety and flashbacks from an incident experienced during his time on operations with the armed forces.

Now he dedicates his life to supporting veterans like him.

"I am very grateful for the opportunity to attend alongside so many veterans who have dedicated their lives to serving our country," said Mr Seaman.