Speedy Walton lifeboatmen are back in the saddle.

For the past 17 years, the lifesavers have been using ex-Post Office bikes to help them get to their lifeboat, which is moored at the end of the pier.

And the crew used the bikes to get into action as quickly as possible.

But the wide cracks in the lengthy pier finally took their toll and the bikes reached the end of the road.

Now cycle shop owner Des Johnson, of Connaught Avenue, Frinton, has came up with the idea of providing robust mountain bikes and has provided ten at cost price.

The £1,000 needed was provided by the RNLI.

Since the introduction of their bikes in 1984, the crew have covered miles going up and down the lengthy pier.

Assistant engineer Kevin Bruce said: "The Post Office bikes had come to the end of their life. We're very grateful."

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