DESPITE the drizzle and cool evening, cycling enthusiasts came out to demonstrate their support for the Skipton Town Race last night.

And it was a doubly-sweet victory in the Elite Men's Criterium for winner, Scott Thwaites, who is a former pupil of Skipton's Ermysted's Grammar School.

He swept to victory up a packed Skipton High Street in a sprint finish with training partner Pete Williams, the 28-year-old from Embsay, snatching second place and Tom Moses from Keighley taking third.

A race spokesman said: "The trio were attacking from the start, reducing the field rider by rider until only the three of them were left."

Thwaites rides for the Germany-based Bora-Argon 18 team, which has an outfit competing in this year's Tour de France. Williams is a rider with One Pro Cycling and Moses rides for JLT Condor.

The event, backed by Craven District Council and Science Fitness, saw the riders compete in a circuit of the town which took in High Street, Water Street, Coach Street and Swadford Street.

It allowed young riders and aspiring professionals to compete alongside some of the leading cycling names in the region.

Council leader Councillor Richard Foster said: “This was a fantastic event and it was brilliant to see so many people come to enjoy the races – children, families, amateurs and professional cyclists.

"We’re delighted with how well the races were received – the crowds were very impressive particularly as this was the first time we’ve run the event.

“I’d like to thank all our sponsors and all the district and town council staff and volunteers who helped to make it such a success. We hope this will be the first event of many.”

The event kicked off with a series of youth races, which ranged from fun events for youngsters to events for riders aged between 12 and 16 year olds. The Under 16s race was won by Jim Brown of Holmfirth.

There were a number of road closures and traffic lights were in operation from about 3.30pm at the bottom of High Street.

The roundabout outside Holy Trinity Church was closed from 4.45pm along with the rest of the route which was lined with barriers.