THE Stilton-based Parrot Print/ TAL racing team made a belated return to top flight racing after their riders suffered a string of health problems.

But only Danny Axford was in action riding a 90-mile event in Dorset.

On one of the worse days of the year for weather, Axford featured in all the moves to finish in sixth place.

His form was good but he was so cold on the last lap that he could not even change gear!

This weekend Axford, Andy Lyons and Gavin Poupart ride the 180km Five Valleys Premier Trophy race in Port Talbot.

This race around the picturesque valleys of South Wales, has attracted a first class field.

At the end of the month the same trio will ride the 220km British Elite Championship at Rivington near Bolton.

The 100-man selected field will have the benefit of completely closed roads as the local authorities are using the race as a full scale dress rehearsal for the Commonwealth Games road races in August.

Stilton's Dave Stanbridge and Fred Daynes will benefit as well, as they are one of four neutral service crews on Commonwealth Games duty in August.