MALDON district's RNLI lifeboat station at Burnham-on-Crouch was a stopping off point for two cyclists who are making their way round the entire English and Welsh coasts for the charity.

Kate Bourn and Beth Barratt have taken on the 1,500-mile journey as both were furloughed – and decided they wanted to fill their time with a purpose.

The energetic pair, who come from Poole in Dorset, started out on their trip from their home town on September 7. Their plan is to work their way around the coast to Scarborough, take a train to Liverpool and then continue their cycling adventure by heading down the west coast of England and Wales before they finish their epic journey in Minehead at the beginning of October.

Volunteers were pleased to meet the pair when they called into the Burnham-on-Crouch RNLI station on Saturday (September 12).

Kate and Beth said: "The work that the RNLI puts into education is vital. Living by the coast, we have seen the impact education is having upon children in the community. Teaching the next generation about the coast, tidal changes, currents and how to be safe in and around water provides a strong tool in reducing the risk of losing lives at sea. Raising money to further this programme is worth the miles."

The pair have so far raised £1,760 out of their target of £2,250.