Robin lays down markers for rivals as he wins first round of cyclo-cross series

Former world masters champion Robin Delve (Mid-Devon CC) won the first round of the HSBC National Trophy Cyclo-Cross Series to lay down a marker to his veteran over-60 rivals.

Delve was too strong for three breakaway rivals in the closing stages of the 32-strong race at Derby and will take the leader's jersey to round two in Cumbria in 10 days' time.

Cathy Kilburn finished eighth in the women's over-50 class and, from tough grid-draws, there were spirited rides from Eva Fox, who worked her way up to 13th, and Bayley Woodger, 41st, both in competitive under-14  events.

Mid-Devon teenager Reuben Heal also produced a gutsy ride to finish first junior and 10th overall at the Porlock Hill Climb near Minehead.

The hugely popular time-trial - there were 72 finishers on the steepest A-road in the UK - was won by Wales' national champion Ed Laverack in 15mins 1sec, with Heal crossing the line in 17.24.