Cyclist gather to tackle gruelling hill climb

Event organisers Sheffrec CC welcomed a massive influx of spectators for the 83rd annual Monsal Hill Climb which has fast grown into one of the greatest Peak District tourist attractions as riders take it in turn to clock up the fastest times.

Sheffrec organiser Marc Etches said: “What distinguishes this ever-growing popular event is that we always try to get a mix of riders of all ages and abilities from amateur club cyclists to pro stars. I can’t think of any other sport where amateur competitors can so readily rub shoulders with their heroes from the top end of the sport.”

Among the worthy competitors Graham Briggs, of Rapha Condor, finished in one minute, 21.4 seconds. Popular Russell Downing clocked up a very close one minute, 22.5 seconds, but it was national hill climb champion Jack Pullar’s one minute, 19.9 seconds that clinched the Monsal Hill Climb’s Dick Aldridge Memorial Trophy.