TOM Ashworth, now back in the locality having returned from university, won the Velo Club Sevale 12-mile hilly time trial.

He recorded a time 27 seconds faster than Brian Boswell, who is the usual favourite for hilly events.

The hot weather had its effect on the size of the field, only seven riders choosing to do battle with the British Camp and Hollybush climbs. Mike Amery is in hot pursuit of the Chairman's fixed wheel award, his time reflecting his choice of a fixed wheel for this hilly event.

The full results were: T Ashworth 34.38, B Boswell 35.05, S O'Toole 38.09, M Amery 38.22, T Knight 41.17, D Yapp 43.13, J Granger 47.55.

The next event is a 10-mile time trial using the Severn Stoke course on Thursday (August 3), starting at 7pm.

Competitors must be a member of a cycling club affiliated to the CTT, but temporary membership of the Velo Club Sevale can be taken out on the night.

Full details of all future events and course details can be found on the club's website, www.sevale-malvern. freeserve.co.uk