An investigations reporter is continuing to rack up the awards for his undercover stings and exposing journalism.

Jon Austin, from Basildon-based daily the Echo, took home the best exclusive prize at the Creative East Awards in Norwich – a scheme celebrating the best creative industries across the Eastern region.

It is the second year running that he took home the gong, beating entries from BBC East and Archant Norfolk’s Eastern Daily Press.

His winning entry was ‘Slave Labour’ – an investigation into the use of vulnerable people, such as the homeless, illegal immigrants and drug addicts, by some travellers on illegal sites in Basildon.

Judges said Slave Labour was a high-standard investigation that went the extra mile. Also shortlisted for the same prize was his exposé of a dog kennels used by local authorities which has since closed due to poor conditions.

Jon said: “It was a real honour to win the award against tough opposition.

“It is great to get recognition for an investigation which shed light on a shady practice largely unknown about and which took up several months of my time.”

In January, Jon was crowned best daily newspaper reporter at the EDF Energy East of England Media Awards for the third year running.

The Creative East awards hosted by Clive Anderson are a celebration of the creative industries across the Eastern region.

Other winners included Radio Norfolk for best radio programme while Norwich Cathedral was crowned best film/TV location.