Cyclo-cross ace Scott Thwaites was crowned British Universities and Colleges national champion after winning in the West Midlands.

Thwaites, from Burley in Wharfedale, took victory in the colours of Leeds Metropolitan University after beating Swansea rival Sion O’Boyle to the line.

The 21-year-old’s brother Mark took fifth spot for Leeds in a well-contested event at Wolverhampton.

The race was run alongside the 12th and final round of the West Midlands League at the Aldersley Leisure Village, where heavy mud did little to prevent the riders flying round the course.

Meanwhile, the annual Yorkshire Cyclo-Cross Association prize presentation and dinner dance has been moved to Saturday, March 6.

The madison race which traditionally coincides with the presentation has moved to the following day.

Tickets are still available for the event, which will be held at the Best Western Guide Post Hotel on Common Road, Low Moor. Call organiser Mandy Parker on 01132-555775 for details.

Time trial riders will get their first chance of action on local roads for the new season on Sunday, February 14, when Team Swift stage their hilly 9.5-mile event near Bumby in East Yorkshire.