LOCAL riders were in the thick of the action in the second round of the Midlands Cyclo-Cross League at Sanders Park in Bromsgrove.

The riders were helped by near perfect weather conditions and a very fast course with a good mixture of technical, but rideable sections and fast grass sections testing both skill and strength.

The 60-man field set off at a very fast place, and was already strung out as the riders hit the first narrow technical sections.

Worcester St. Johns riders Simon Ward and Jon Newey emerged from the first lap in 13th and 15th place, respectively, while Worcester-based Gavin Poupart of Stilton RT moved steadily up through the first ten riders.

The eventual winner was David Bowater of Stourbridge CC closely followed by George Richardson of Peugeot 406.

Local riders Jake Stow and Ben Dale both of Malvern had a race-long battle for third and fourth places with Dale eventually coming out on top in a closely fought sprint.

Gavin Poupart finished in sixth place with Worcester St Johns riders Simon Ward in 13th, Jon Newey 15th and Jon Starkey 22th.

Round three tomorrow is in Rugeley, Staffordshire, while Jon Newey will be testing himself against Britains top riders in the first round of the National Trophy competition at Pittville park in Cheltenham.

Jon Newey will be testing himself against Britain's top riders in the first round of the National Trophy competition at Pittville Park in Cheltenham.