HALESOWEN A&CC's annual road race over 70 miles on the well known Astley circuit, near Stourport-on-Severn, took place last Sunday.

David Bates, of Mammouth Lifestyle RT, crossed the line first in a time of 2.44.49.

Bates was a member of a nine man break which went away on the first of five laps. The first Halesowen rider home was 19 year old Joe Hobbs in seventh place with Sam Dighton 21st, Sam Green 28th and Jason Day 41st.

Halesowen's rising star, first year junior Charles Walker, managed another storming ride to finish 19th in the junior Lincoln GP.

Charles was delighted with his ride but was amazed to find that his chain broke just after crossing the finish line at the top of a 25 per cent hill outside Lincoln Cathedral.

The 16 year old from Pedmore had a superb week winning a round of the South Staffs/Shropshire Cycle Clubs RR League near Telford and putting in some fine rides in the weekly Halesowen Friday Night Track League, which commenced last Friday evening.