RIDERS turned out in force for the first running of the Nick Denby Memorial Road Race last weekend.

Nick, 35, who was a powerhouse of the local cycling scene, died of leukaemia in June last year just a few months after the birth of his daughter Evie.

The event, organised by Bronte Wheelers, covered six laps of the Dog and Gun circuit above Oxenhope. It was won by Dave Timbers of Sheffield who made his break on the last climb of Blackmoor Road and just held on to win from Lee Roberts (Wakefield) and Richard Dean (Oldham).

The minor places were taken by Paul Oldham, Stephen Feeney and Andy Whitehead with the pack just 20 seconds behind. Oldham had been clear at the front for 15 miles but was caught by five chasing riders at the half way stage. The leading group worked to build up a one minute lead over the chasing pack, but they chased hard and pulled back to within 30 seconds.

When Timbers made his move the chase went right to the line with Roberst just a couple of bike-lengths behind.

n The prizes were presented by Nick Denby's widow Christina (right) with Richard Harrison (best local), Lee Roberts, Dave Trimbers and Richard Dean.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.