THE next three Saturdays will be busy ones at Halwill Junction, as scores of cyclists descend on the area for the Mid Devon Cycling Club's annual 'Springtime pursuits'.

These races, the traditional season openers for the club, have a history dating back more than 35 years. Normally held near Exeter, roadworks have forced a change of course through Red Ruby Country.

The events are run as handicap races, with slower riders getting a head start over those who are faster and stronger. This means those at the front will try to fend off charges from the trailing back. If the handicappers get it right, there should be a large bunch of riders contesting the finishing sprint.

The races will use an eleven-and-a-half mile course. The circuit takes them out of Halwill Junction and up Old Station Road, past the road for Chilla to a left turn A3072 at Beara Cross. At Dunsland Cross the race turns back down the A3079 to finish close to the junction with Stags Wood Drive. 

Each race is supported by lead cars and riders from the motor cycle National Escort Group.

From 10.30am each morning, there will be a race for the less experience male cyclists in the fourth category, that will cover three laps. There is then a separate women's race over two laps.

The afternoon races follow the same format and are for more experienced riders in the elite first, second and third categories. They also race three laps.

The races run on February 15, February 22 and March 1. For details e-mail Ken Robertson on [email protected]">[email protected]