TEN riders braved the freezing conditions to compete in the VC Sevale Free Wheel Competition on Tuesday.

Even with a slight following wind on the descent of British Camp, it was a difficult event, the riders found it hard to keep a smooth line, the cold obviously was a big problem. In the summer many of these riders would drop down this stretch of road at 45 mph, on Tuesday the top speed was closer to 30.

Tony Knight was the eventual winner with a distance of 1.44 miles, which left him at the bottom of the railway bridge, his nearest rivals were some way back. Last year's victor, Eric Gorton was unable to start because he was in hospital with injuries sustained in a collision with a car shortly before Christmas, however he has vowed to return next year to regain his title.

The event was, as usual, followed by a 25-mile ride round the lanes then food and drinks at the Farmers Arms.

Details of future events can be found on the club website www.sevale-malvern. freeserve.co.uk or phone Eric on 01684 568015.