MEMBERS of the Royal Dean Forest Cycling Club enjoyed a "moderately successful season compared to the highs of the last three years" it was reported at the annual meeting.

Chairman Matt Heaman opened proceedings at Littledean House Hotel welcoming friends from Glos Velo, a cycling fellowship based in the Forest as well as friends from Ross and District Cycling Club.

The season's highlight was the launch of the Junior Mountain Bike Time Trials around the FreeMiner Trial which attracted the attention of the BCF (British Cycling Federation). Organiser Alan Crowley is planning a further seven events mid-week for the 2012 season.

Matt also highlighted the achievements of Earl Smith in open time trial events around the region and the exploits of Adam Taylor off-road in endurance mountain bike events.

Among prizewinners Steve Ardern and Emily Ravenhill jointly picked up the Reg Berrow Memorial Tankard for setting up and leading many of the club's "short" road rides last spring and summer in between training for an Ironman and Cross Channel Swim attempt respectively. Emily is now busy trying to get a WAGs (Wives and Girlfriends) road ride off the ground.  

Paul Sharpe was the recipient of the new Road Racing Trophy and Mike Henderson won back the Audax Trophy this year.