Daredevil postie risks life and limb at TT

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From Monday to Friday, postman Andy Winkle takes to his van to deliver letters around Cheadle.

But, when the weekend comes around, he literally risks life and limb in a motorbike sidecar travelling at 150mph.

The 50-year-old recently returned from the Isle of Man TT event with his partner John Holden after the pair took part in three races at the flagship event, which represents the pinnacle of the sport.

And they took home a silver and a bronze medal for their efforts.

Mr Winkle, from Tean, talked about how dangerous his sport is.

He said: "When there's a crash in TT, it's invariably very serious.

"Two lads were killed in this year's Isle of Man event.

"It's a very dangerous track and you have to treat it with respect.

"A few years back, John came off the bike and was lucky to only break five ribs, chip his pelvis and collar bone and sustain tears to his kidney and liver."

Mr Winkle said he enjoyed his day job, but nothing could match the intensity of TT racing.

He said: "My job's pleasant enough, but it's just a job really.

"I live for the weekends, when John and I can take part in TT events and feel that adrenaline rush.

"It's a risky business, but you don't fear it.

"If you thought that way, you'd never manage to get out of bed."

Mr Winkle has thanked sponsors and friends who help him out, including Gary Johnson, of GS Johnson Engineering.