It turns out a Sidmouth Lifeboat crew member’s bike was not nicked – but a good Samaritan feared it would be.

Royal Glen Hotel porter and waiter Nicolae Horgos spotted Guy Bennett’s distinctive bicycle on the beach on Monday evening, locked it in a shed and spent days trying to trace its owner.

They met up yesterday evening for the handover after the lifesaver listed it as stolen online.

Guy described Romanian Nicolae as ‘such a nice chap’, adding: “It’s a massive relief. I can’t believe it.”

His colleague at Jurassic Paddle Sports and fellow lifeboat crew member Guy Russell said: “The bike is immaculate and has been returned to Guy. What can we say? Thank you dude. Nicolae has been given a lifetime membership to Jurassic Paddle Sports.

“Also, thank you to everyone so much for being so kind, helpful and generous with their support.

“Amazing how people’s kindness can create such a different outcome.”

Guy shared the good news on Facebook and it has been liked by nearly 400 people overnight.