An Epping family butcher has introduced a replacement bicycle to the front of its shop in time for the Tour de France next week.

Church’s butchers in High Street, Epping, purchased the 70-year-old bicycle after having its previous one stolen in September last year.

Church’s managing director Paul Parker, who describes the bike as ‘part of the team’, said: “We have had a lot of positive remarks regarding the new bicycle.

“We replaced it for the Tour De France, it is very similar to the stolen one."

The butchers plan to celebrate the new purchase and the upcoming cycling festival by supplying the crowd with a variety of food, including bacon rolls, a BBQ and a hog roast.

Mr Parker added: “We will be getting up very early to prepare food for the event, instead of opening up the shop we have decided to work outside, that way we can enjoy the day with our customers.”