Davies' winning run ended by Garthwaite

With roadworks at the Clock Tower island imminent, the 21-strong field took a belated chance to try out the Newport-Hortonwood course, with Newport-based Garthwaite charging around the 9.8 mile course in 20 minutes 32 seconds.

The Rhino Velo rider was looking determined as he flew down the course but thought he had more left in the tank.

"I thought it would be a faster night after warming up," he admitted. "I was satisfied with my time, but still too far from a sub-20."

Davies, meanwhile, was getting his first sight of the course and not only took runner-up overall with a fine effort of 21:41 but helped himself to the same position in the Veterans class with +3:56.

With his nearest challenger Tim Beardmore finishing in fifth spot in the both championships on 22:31 and +3:15, Davies added six points apiece to his lead and is the man to catch.

The Hafren CC rider said: "I was pleased with the result as it was my first time on that course. I knew I wouldn't be troubling Matt for the win! A good course."

Taking third overall and in the Veterans was Mid Shropshire Wheelers' Craig Ball, who seems to be rejuvenated after a short break.

Spectacular

Ball was another rider with a determined look on his face as he stopped the watch on 22 minutes exactly, which when converted to Veterans Standard saw him just 10 seconds behind Davies in +3:46 and edging things by 20 seconds from Nova Raiders' Andy Rose, who cemented his third place overall in the Veterans contest on the strength of this ride.

Ball said: "I've had a few weeks out so very pleased with my time, it was surprisingly quick for all."

Despite these riders doing well in the veterans' race, there was no stopping the spectacular effort of winner Terry Icke.

Trying out his new club's course for the first time, the 72 year-old showed a clean pair of heels to the chasing pack with a fabulous +6:09.

"I'm starting to feel better as season rolls out," said Icke. "My race went well for first time on this course, it was good to see so many people supporting the Series. There was a nice tail wind out, though a bit sticky on the way back, but it was very enjoyable."

Wrekinsport's Tracey Billington took the opportunity to add 20 unchallenged points to her tally after ending the evening on 28:50 and she now holds an impressive 42-point lead in the Ladies' class. Despite this, she was sorry at the lack of competition.

"I was disappointed there were no other SCCA ladies there," she said. "I've yet to find my racing legs."

Round nine of the Series takes place on June 24 when Oswestry Paragon CC promote their 19-mile event on the Queen's Head-Gobowen-Ellesmere course at 7pm.