A Penzance man with chronic walking difficulties has had a new lease on life - thanks to the Penzance Cycle Centre in New Street.

Jem Mace from Daniel Place had been reliant on a battery operated car to get around but - has now swapped four wheels for three.

Jem told The Cornishman: "As a youngish man the large, cumbersome and slow car cause me embarrassment and inconvenience to elderly folk, parents with pushchairs and other pavement users.  Also you just had to sit there so you got no exercise, " explained Jem.

However, he visited Dave Harvey at the Penzance Cycle Centre and discovered his dream machine - an electric trike!

"It has given me a new lease of life," said Jem.  "The first time I got on it I did find it quite difficult because you've got to pull an extra wheel around and I was riding up hill - but once the battery kicked in it took me up the hill no problem.  I've ridden to Mousehole, up around Paul and back to Penzance on it - and still had a full battery when I got home."

"I feel many other people could benefit from an electric cycle like mine and recommend the New Street Cycle Centre shop - the understanding and attention shown by Dave Harvey was so very appreciated," added Jem.

Dave Harvey said the range of electric bikes and trikes he stocks have opened up cycling to a whole new group of people.  "They are not specifically for disabled people - there are all kinds of people would like to get into cycling but find the hills we have around here a bit daunting," said Dave.

"With these bikes and trike when you get to a hill, or get tired, you just twist the grip and the battery powered motor gives you some help.  I've sold more of the bikes than trikes, but everyone who has bought them has been delighted with them - and most have said they do far more than they expected."

"They do help you get fitter as you are getting exercise by cycling - but you can get a bit of help going up the hills.  They are brilliant for a lot of different people - and I'm delighted Jem is over the moon with his," added Dave.