THOUSANDS of people turned out in Skipton town centre last night to watch a world-class cycling on the High Street.

The crowds at the Yorkshire Housing Skipton Cycle Races were warmed up with a series of children’s and junior races before the elite cyclists took to the course, a 1km lap of Skipton town centre.

The sun broke through and over 5,000 people came along to cheer the cyclists on in the HSBC UK National Circuit Series race.

Four cyclists broke away from the main group and challenged for the podium places, three from the JLT Condor team.

Harry Tanfield, from BIKE Channel Canyon, managed to split the JLT Condor riders but couldn’t quite outsprint Jon Mould, who raced to victory, with team-mate Matt Gibson in third.

Sharon Hudson, Communications and Partnerships Manager at Craven District Council, which organised the event, said: “We’re delighted that so many people came along to enjoy such an exciting race. We are very fortunate to have the chance to see these world-class cyclists in action right on our doorstep.

“The town was buzzing and the children’s and junior races were really well supported too with some fantastic riding from the young cyclists.

“Many thanks to all those who helped make this race such a success, particularly co-funders Skipton BID, support from Skipton Town Council, and sponsors Yorkshire Housing, Midgeley Motor Cars, Howden’s Joinery, Skipton Market and Visit Skipton. Thanks also to all the volunteers who helped out on the night and ensured everything ran smoothly.”

Geraldine Thompson, Director of Skipton BID, said: “This was a great event for the town and it was clear to see that Skipton’s night-time economy benefited from those who came to watch. We’re very proud that Skipton is able to host events such as this which showcase the town and all it has to offer.”

The event began with the under-9s and under-12s races, which saw boys and girls racing up and down Skipton High Street. The under-9s girls race was won by Felicity Williamson, with Milly Charlton second and Naomi Taj third. In the under-9s boys race, Jacob Rook emerged victorious, with John Curran second and Jim Curran third.

The under-12 girls race was won by Cat Ferguson, with Tilly McKibben second and Ayssha Vose third, while James Bent won the boys race, followed by Toby Lucas and Tom Compana.

Then it was the juniors’ turn, with under-14s and under-16s racing the full 1km circuit. The under 14s girls race was won by Eleanor Hunt with Tilly Percy second and Millie Jones third, while the boys race was won by Benjamin Peatfield with Daniel Vincent second and Joshua Clough third.

In the under-16s event, the girls race was won by Ava Oxley with Amy Monkhouse second and Maisy Vasic third, while the boys race was won by Samuel Watson with Max Rushby second and Oliver Rees third.

The elite race will be televised on Eurosport on Tuesday, July 11, at 9.30pm.