JIM Duffy transferred his promising time trial form to the road during the opening round of the Dave Astles Memorial Road Race Series.

The Weaver Valley Cycling Club member was a comfortable victor in his age category after breaking away from rivals in the early stages of a 30-mile race.

He maintained a gap to the chasing pack for the remainder, navigating a circuit on roads around Lower Withington in testing conditions to finish clear of second-placed Paul Thursfield (API-Metrow).

Matthew Ellis, also representing Weaver Valley, was eighth in his age class.

Kevan Underhill joined the men’s over 55s, classifying sixth, while Ged Lacey was sixth among riders over 60. Steve Fidler (Crewe Clarion) took overall honours.

Duffy again excelled when he returned to racing against the clock for the East Lancs Road Club 10, posting a personal best of 22.03 to classify seventh in a competitive field of more than 100 riders.

He was joined on the day by Weaver Valley teammates Alistair Stanway, who timed 23.10 to finish just outside the top 30.

Dave Fearon crossed the line in 23.17, while novice Stephen Lucas clocked 26.14.

Mark Nulty (Glossop Kinder Velo CC) was top of the time-sheet at the close with 21.17 narrowly ahead of Peter Walker (Leigh Premier RC).

Caroline Fearon, Dave’s wife, returned to competitive action in a Manchester and District Ladies’ Cycling Association event over the same course, ranking 21st in 30.14.

Lucy Davies (Artic Tacx RT) was fastest of the women that took part, stopping the clock in 24.56.

Northwich Guardian:

Weaver Valley Cycling Club's Stephen Lucas in action during the East Lancs Road Club 10. Picture: Ellen Ishwerwood