JONATHAN Dayus raced to an outstanding fifth place in the 120 miles British Road Race championships at Car-diff.

The Worcester cyclist, now a professional with Nantes 44, rode brilliantly throughout the tough race.

The pace was relentless from the gun, when defending champion John Tanner, with Mark Lovatt and two of Dayus's team-mates, Neil Swithenbank and Robin Sharman, attacked.

Tanner and Lovatt stayed at the head of affairs throughout, but the break was caught by the survivors of two pursing groups, with Dayus looking comfortable at the high speeds.

Gavin Poupart, of Worcester St Johns, was also in with a chance, but his pursuing group failed to make contact before the final selection of six riders was made: Tanner, Dayus, Lovatt, Rob Hayles, Jeremy Hunt, and Matt Stephens.

Hayles, of Cofidis, is an Olympic track medal winner, while Hunt, riding for Big Matt, is hoping for a Tour de France ride with his team. Both Lovatt and Stephens are past winners of the Worcester Evening News Road Race.

Attack after attack was made, as each tried to break clear to avoid the lottery of the sprint, but the six entered the final kilometre together.

Stephens tailed off after a last effort and no-one could match Hunt's devastating sprint as he found a gap on the barriers to head Hayles and John Tanner at the line. Lovatt deservedly won the prizes for intermediate sprints.

Dayus was disappointed not to make the podium. His Worcester supporters had nothing but admiration for his riding. Poupart was also cheered home in nineteenth place, while Gareth Sheppard, Stilton RT, finished in the bunch to round off a fine day for Worcester cycling.

In the Worcester St John's mid-week time-trial, Lee Finch sped to victory, with an impressive 57.20 for the 25 miles course.

Chris McSweeney, just outside two hours for a "50" at the weekend, rode his best "25" time for second place in 58.40 Jake Stow, was third in 1.1.53.