CYCLING fans Alex Cartney and Laura Bright scooped VIP tickets to the Tour Series in Northwich on May 12 after winning a competition which took place in the town centre.

The contest was held at the Artisan Market, and the challenge was to beat a distance set by Northwich-born cyclist Matt Nowell in one minute on a Wattbike.

Matt, who is hoping to secure a place on the Bike Channel Canyon Team at his home circuit, posted a distance of 915 metres in the minute, setting the bar very high.

Unsurprisingly nobody managed to eclipse the distance set by Matt, but Alex and Laura got closer than anyone in the men’s and women’s competitions.

Alex pedalled for 886 metres, and Laura achieved 744, scooping VIP tickets to the cycling event next month.

The tickets offer a prime viewing location on the start/finish line, a complimentary programme, complimentary food and access to the complimentary bar.

The event has been secured thanks to the work of Northwich Business Improvement District, Northwich Town Council and Cheshire West and Chester Council.

Town clerk Chris Shaw was in town for the Wattbike competition and got in the saddle himself to put his pedal powers to the test.

“It was great to see so many people taking part in the competition to try and beat Matt’s distance,” he said.

Northwich BID Manager Jane Hough was also in attendance, and is urged people to come into town on Friday, May 12 to check out the racing and host of children’s activities.

“With some of the best cyclists in the country coming to Northwich to race it’s shaping up as an event not to be missed,” she said.

“On top of this there are so many great attractions lined up in Victoria Street car park and the town centre for the whole family.”