CUSTOMERS at The Flying Dutchman pub and restaurant in Queenborough no longer have an excuse for not buying a round.

The old "left the wallet at home" routine doesn't work because licensee Jan Ingram has had a cash point installed in the public bar.

She said: "I don't know if this is the only Island pub to offer instant money, but it's certainly proving popular."

"The machine is rented from Securicor and has been in use for a month. To qualify for installation, the company require through trade figures, and happily the pub and restaurant meet the criteria."

Jan thinks the service will be invaluable to yachtsman coming into Queenborough during the summer.

"Although we've always accepted plastic, and occasionally changed a cheque, the cash point will save all the hassle," she said.