With around 60 riders competing for the Ray Levers Memorial Trophy, over a distance of 33 miles at an average speed of 25mph, Houlton rode a sensible race, managing to stay out of trouble.

After keeping himself in contention for the mass sprint he came home inside the top 20, a pleasing start to the race season.

Club time-trial champion Paul Austin competed in Ravensthorpe Cycling Club's 10-mile promotion last Saturday.

The race was held on a course near Ferrybridge in windy conditions, which were not conducive for fast times.

However, he recorded 25 minutes 46 seconds for his first outing of this season and Tony Siveter finished with 26 minutes 59 seconds.

Last weekend's club run was to Sudbrooke, Lincolnshire.

A dozen riders left the market square in good spirit for this 70-mile ride which was to take a route by way of Dunham, Bransby, Scampton and Scothern.

After a brief stop for refreshment the ride continued through the Lincolnshire villages of Hackthorn, Fillingham and Kexby before descending into Gainsborough and onward through Beckingham and Gringley.

Arrival back into Retford was later than anticipated due to the unusually high number of punctures experienced.

Sunday's club run will be a tour of the Trent-side villages, a distance of approx 50 miles, meet in the market square at 9am. This will be an ideal ride for new riders, and all are welcome.