AN INDEPENDENT estate agency is laying claim to be the greenest in Sussex after trialling an electric bike to visit properties.

Newberry Tully, in Church Street, Seaford, already uses solar energy, an electric company car, low energy LED lights and has a policy to recycle as much as possible.

It is now looking to build on its impressive environmental credentials by trialling an electronic bike to use when visiting properties.

The bike has a top speed of 15mph and will allow agents to travel to and from properties quicker than most could in built-up areas with heavy traffic.

The state-of-the-art technology means the bike will not break down in the rain.

The Giant bike has a motor powered by a battery and needs to be pedalled but when going uphill the motor kicks in.

Company partners, Andrew Tully and Stephen Newberry, explained why being green is so important to the company.

He said: “We are always looking at ways in which we can lessen our agency’s impact on the environment. Both Andrew and I are fascinated by how new technology can improve the way things are done and having the electric bike on trial is something that instantly appealed to us.”

The firm uses a Nissan Leaf electric car which they’ve nicknamed Sparky.

The environmentally-friendly focus includes solar panels which provide the office with all its electrical needs and has already proved to be a good investment for the business.

Andrew added: “I have young children so by doing all we can to lessen our impact on the environment makes me feel as if we are doing something very positive for them and future generations.”

Stephen said: “We live and work in a beautiful part of the country and doing our bit to keep it that way is very important for us. Our clients appreciate and understand what we are striving for and the response to our environmental efforts has been overwhelmingly positive and supportive.”

The agency has been working closely with sustainable transport charity Sustrans.