CYCLING: Speedy cyclist Liam Preece is heading off to an International Youth Tour today in Ireland to compete against top juniors from across Europe.

The 15-year-old Stourport High School pupil has been selected for British cycling's West Midlands regional youth squad.

The Wyre Forest Cycle Racing Club member will take on various stages, including time trial and a road race, over three days in County Kerry from Saturday.

It is another boost for the teenager in an excellent season which saw him become West Midlands TT schools champion and joint hill climb winner.

Preece also finished fourth in the British Schools National Championships and is third junior in the Rudy Project Time Trial Series with one round left.

His father Steve said: "Liam's going to Ireland for the experience rather than for a win.

"But he's hit some form and taken another minute off his personal best.

"He rode at the weekend in South Wales and did 25 miles in 57 minutes and 33 seconds.

"And he can now do the 10-mile time trial in 22-30."

Preece also hopes to race in the Manchester International Youth Tour in two weeks time.