Tony Baker had a surprise step back in time when he went for lunch - and came face-to-face with Laurel and Hardy look-alikes.

Mr Baker, of Frinton, was once featured in a newsreel alongside the comedy legends.

The 1947 footage showed Mr Baker driving a train with Laurel and Hardy next to him.

The Southend branch of the duo's appreciation society, the Saps at Sea Tent, decided they wanted to honour Mr Baker's role.

Mr Baker had been unable to go to an earlier convention due to ill health but on Monday he met the fans.

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Published Wednesday October 16, 2002