THURSDAY of last week saw the start of five days of activity with a three way challenge match between Bury, Bolton and Oakhill Clarion clubs.

While Oakhill emerged clear winners there were some impressive performances by our trackmen which gave us one first, four second and two third places.

In only his second competitive appearance on the track, John Yates got a second place in the 'B' 20 laps points, whilst Adrian Smith won the 'A' 20 laps points impressively.

It was pleasing to have new member Len Wolfenden and his son Martin competing.

Len won one of the four sprints in the 20 laps points, whilst son Mark rode well keeping pace with the seniors. Adrian Smith was in action again on Friday night when he won the 20 laps scratch.

The annual awards presentation took place on Saturday night at Walshaw sports club. Philip Albiez and Vince Eastwood shared the major road championships but it was pleasing that 12-year-old Simon Yates was awarded the trackman of the year trophy for his inspirational riding throughout 2004.

Our National club recognised the exemplary participation by his twin brother Adam who was awarded the Harold Lamb memorial trophy for meritorious performance by a junior rider.

The Harmony group entertained with Lancashire folk songs and humour.

After the previous evening's entertainment both A' and B' sections of the club elected for short 30 and 40 mile rides respectively around the network of roads up to Chorley via Bolton.

Adrian Smith led the latter ride at a brisk pace and then his five days of cycling activity continued at the Velodrome on Monday when he was second in the Devil and he was also a member of the winning composite pursuit team.

New schoolboy member Martin Wolfenden was also at this meeting where it was pleasing to see him win the eight laps handicap.

Simon Yates was second in this event and also second in the ten lap paced handicap, but he finished the evening with a win in the Devil. Twin brother Adam also enjoyed a win in the six lap keiren.

TANDEM RIDING CLUB FOR THE VISUALLY

IMPAIRED

TWO of the blind lady riders were out on last Sunday's run to Haigh Hall. Pilot steerer Andy Ascroft lives in Bolton and since this short ride takes in much of this Metro's territory he diverted from the usual route to make it longer and more interesting.

Andy was steering Helen Browne who is not only blind but has severe hearing problems. She does though enjoy her Sunday rides. Sharon Cox was the other lady and on this occasion she was steered by Jim Horrocks.