CYCLOCROSS is back in the Forest of Dean after more than 20 years thanks to a Royal Dean Forest Cycling Club (RDFCC) event on Sunday.

Paul Jones, spokesperson for the club, said: “Despite the overnight rain the event was well supported with a field just short of 100 riders, ranging in age from seven to 71.”

The event took place at Worcester Lodge Enclosure in Broadwell and took in a grassy loop followed by a circuit into the forest to test rider handling skills.

Paul added: “The star rider for the club was Iwona Szmyd, who won the women’s event. Conditions were slippery for everyone, including RDFCC’s Steve Beal who took several nasty falls. Jared Linden took third place in the senior men’s category and the under-23s event.

“RDFCC were well represented in the veteran’s race, with Matt Neale, Henry McGill and first timer Steve Beal placing well. Anthony White was the best club finisher in an excellent fourth place.”