SHAUN Hickinbottom was the fastest member of Wyre Forest CRC in their reliability trial run.

The 46-mile-long course over undulating roads attracted more than 50 riders.

Despite not strictly being a race the event is run at near competition pace to allow riders to assess their fitness levels before the season starts in March.

Hickinbottom finished in the leading group with a time of two hours and five minutes to place him well inside the gold standard.

He was followed seven minutes later by Andy Overton and Justin Walters (2-13) with Ken Bradbury finishing in 2-27.

In the silver standard ride, Ian Connolly showed he is recovering well from the broken ribs he sustained at the end of last year by finishing in the leading group with a time of 2-33 minutes, with Jacqui and Mark Phillips two minutes behind and Paul Gibson finishing on 2-37.

More details of club activities can be found on wfcrc.org.uk l Meanwhile, the British Cycling promoted coaching course for ladies and girls continued to get a good response at the weekend with over 40 cyclists enjoying fine- weather riding at the Stourport Sports Club circuit.

The riders were put through their paces by coach Louise Day encouraging them to take up close order riding in small but fast moving groups.

Many demonstrated new-found confidence in their abilities, allowing them to pass on advice and suggestions to the less skilled riders. The next session is on Sunday, March 2 with details available at louiseday@britishcycling.org.uk