Hogg takes the spoils in a contest of high stakes at Hempton Common

Norwich rider Alison Hogg (Push Sport). Picture: Fergus Muir (Image: Archant)

A heavy shower hit the former gravel pit course half way through the race, raising the stakes on what is already one of the most challenging circuits in the Eastern League

Ipswich rider Gemma Melton set the pace, but a consistently-lapping Hogg took the lead at half distance.

Melton had serious problems with her brakes, but with only a quarter of a mile of hard road remaining she still held second place. However, this included a U-turn which Melton overshot, despite desperately braking with her feet, allowing Jo Newstead (XRT/Elmy) though to claim second place with Melton finishing in third.

The day started in bright sunshine which shone on an outstanding ride by Florence Barnett (King's Lynn CC) who beat all the rest of the mixed field to win the Under 12s.

Iceni Velo and Pedal Revolution riders working hard. Picture: Fergus Muir (Image: Archant)

The first rain fell on the Youth (age 12-15) race, won by Alex Dale (Lee Valley Youth), just five seconds up on George Farrow-Green (Iceni Velo). Jordan Rumbles, of the promoting club East Coast Riders, took fourth spot – his best result of the season.

After that strong winds blew in shower after shower.

Stephen James scored a fifth win in the Senior league, refusing to panic when a piece of debris caught in his transmission and cost him 90 seconds. He climbed back into the lead while Seb Herrod took second and became league leader, after a battle with Callum Riley, Kieran Jarvis and new Renvale recruit Paddy Atkinson.

Forest Side Riders (of Epping Forest) scored a 1-2-3 win in the 40-49s – with Paul Groombridge(Push Sport), riding single-speed, in fourth, while Jimmy Piper took his seventh 50-plus victory.

Getting off is the only option for Paul Groombridge on single-speed at Hempton. Picture: Fergus Muir (Image: Archant)

At the Cycling Club Breckland annual dinner in Watton, awards were well spread among the membership. Clubman of the Year was Mark Fairhead while the Jubilee Trophy awarded for service to the club went to Heidi Davis. Club Champion was Alex Bailey who also received the Wooden Spoon award as chief stirrer in club affairs.

First time up time up the big climb for the seniors at Hempton. Picture: Fergus Muir (Image: Archant)

Kings Lynn veterans Maciej Malysza (front) and Simon Hardy climb at Hempton. Picture: Fergus Muir (Image: Archant)

Stephen James (Renvale RT) takes the Senior win at Hempton. Picture: Fergus Muir (Image: Archant)

Jo Newstead (XRT/Elmy Cycles) seizes second place at the last gasp at Hempton. Picture: Fergus Muir (Image: Archant)