A GROUP of fire-fighters from Epping managed a 270 mile cycle ride - without leaving their station.

The team of 15 cycled the equivalent of Manchester to Lands End on static bikes outside the station to raise money for the Fire Fighters Benevolent Fund and Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Leading Fire Fighter Jason Whitbread said: “It was for 24 hours to see how far we could get. We started at 6pm on Friday and finished at 6pm it on the Saturday. It wasn't easy.”

More than £1,400 was raised by the group who cycled throughout the fire station's open day at the weekend.

Lots of people turned up to offer words of encouragement and have a look around the station.

Mr Whitbread added: “On the open day we had a bouncy castle, cake stall and raffle. It gave members of the public the chance to see the appliances, have a look at the engines and ask us questions. It was well supported.”