Return of cycling team's former hero helps Paterson to glory

Paterson maintained his sparkling start to the season by taking the latest race at Lancaster’s Salt Ayre circuit on Saturday. But he received considerable help from his Andy Moore Autocentres/J.E.James Racing Team colleague Dexter.

Back racing after a two-year break from the sport, Dexter showed that the old magic is still there as he followed team orders to play a supporting role for Paterson.

The smart plan worked well as Paterson spotted the opportunity to create an early break and then Dexter, ever the wily tactician, sprang into action and played the peloton to perfection, enabling the break to extend.

The duo continued to work hard together to dominate the front of the race, always in control, and as the final laps approached, Paterson moved into prime position and pounced from the last corner with a ferocious sprint, even though it was uphill into a fierce headwind. It was a trademark kick that brought him victory with panache, and Dexter was close behind, delighted with his comeback.

The weekend’s success continued the following day when Dexter recorded a stunning sixth place in a race at Middlesbrough, while Paterson scored more points for the team in an open road race at Seacroft. He attacked hard and drove home the sprint to take fourth spot.

Elsewhere, another Andy Moore rider, young Harry Buxton, produced a strong and confident performance to take gold and the junior TT title at the local Staveley time trial event.

“This was proof of Harry’s potential,” said team manager Moore. “Jono’s return was simply superb, while Patto is in amazing form and took his victory in style. The lads’ confidence and spirit are unstoppable at the moment, and their success is richly deserved.”