SIX members of the Flitch Bikes team travelled up to the Thetford MTB Racing winter race series on Sunday. The weather was appalling with torrential rain causing part of the track to be closed early in the race. The 6.2-mile mountain bike circuit quickly

SIX members of the Flitch Bikes team travelled up to the Thetford MTB Racing winter race series on Sunday.

The weather was appalling with torrential rain causing part of the track to be closed early in the race. The 6.2-mile mountain bike circuit quickly became a quagmire with two of the team having to retire due to mechanical failure caused by the conditions.

However, out of 500 starters, Stuart Carmichael finished in 34th place in the men's open and Mark Jeden finished 30th in the men's 40-plus, despite having to mend his chain mid race.

Tom Deakins placed 102nd in the men's 40-plus and Chris Pallet placed 90th in the men's open; both respectable placings given the conditions as finishing at all was an achievement.

Flitch Bikes have also just announced a new time trial racing team for 2008. Flitch Crono will consist of eight riders with their sights firmly set on silverware, headed by Dunmow man Richard O'Rourke. The club will also still be racing their existing Flitch Bikes team for beginners and improvers, so there's something for everyone.

Anyone interested in joining the club for some mountain biking or road cycling, either for racing or just fun, should contact them on 01371 872272 or e-mail stuart@flitchmanagement.co.uk