TAVISTOCK'S downhill mountain bike club's new season kicked off on Sunday with the first of four 'Winter Series' races held at their woodlands site near Chipshop.

More than 70 riders gathered on the damp morning in the Tamar Valley. Racing in the senior category is set to be closer than ever this year with top ranked juniors Jay Williamson and Bill Colwill moving up a category to mix it with club champion Harry Steer and ex-pro racer and local favourite Ash Mullane. The track was a great, flowing mix of roots and rocks, jumps and drops all made slightly greasy by the damp morning air.

Each rider had two timed runs against the clock. Times were fast on the steep track heading down through the woods but it was Ash Mullane who took the honours in the closely contested senior category. Not far behind was Jay Williamson with Harry Steer in third.

Other category winners were Andy Boyle in the masters, Ryan Tunnell in the juniors while Jack Hewlett took the juvenile win.

Owen Willicombe took the youths' win and John Cobb the veterans.

Woodland riders would like to thank everyone for a great turn out and all the sponsors and prize donations from Silverfish,Koo Bikes, Super Saturated clothing  and PRG MTB Holidays.

The next round is to be held on Feb 26, again at the Chipshop site.