In wintery conditions but with a fair wind all seven riders made it over the first lip and rolled down Millington dale and up the final rise before the S bends.

The bookies’ favourite Mike Pickering was looking like he had retained his title with about a 10 metre lead. Last rider down Dave Millson managed to hold his aerodynamic position and rolled into a half wheel lead before grinding to a halt. “I did have a pie for my lunch on Friday” said a euphoric Dave of his surprise victory.

Tactics and training methods were discussed by the fire in The Ramblers’ Rest tearoom, Millington before the ride home.