BURY-Pedal Sport could hardly have had a worse start to the new season.

Not only did they have to face the very strong Stoke side, but the weather was foul, very cold and wet and the high winds played havoc with the starting procedure.

Several riders on duty tried hard - they were up against it - big style!

In the second team match, veteran Steve Mann was outstanding, dropping just one point in his four rides and winning the other three.

The only other regular rider, Tom Doyle, won two races, whilst the four newcomers all tried hard on the heavy and hard going.

BURY-PEDALSPORT - 54: Steve Mann 15, Tom Doyle 12, Chris Parrish 10, Will Collins 6+2, Michael Parrish 6+1, Ashley Simpson 5.

STOKE-WHITEROCK-66

The senior match was tough but there were some good features, Scott Jarman, despite feeling ill, pulling of a couple of incredibly fast starts early on in the match.

Veterans Fred Rothwell and John Whiting battled hard without a lot of success, John winning one of Bury's only three successes.

The star of the day from the Bury point of view was Captain Neil Howarth, who was a fine example to all, with a show of determined riding including a couple of great passes.

It was mainly down to Neil that only two of Stoke's riders were unbeaten, winning two races and following John Whiting home for Bury's only 7-2 in heat 15.

BURY-PEDAL SPORT 63: Neil Howarth 17+1, John Whiting 9, Fred Rothwell 9, Steve Mann 7 +1, Chris Parrish 5, Scott Jarman 5, Tom Doyle 5, Michael Parrish 5.

STOKE WHITEROCK: 112.

On Sunday the first round of the Northern Fours and Junior League gets underway at the Goshen track , starting at 11.30am, with the under 13 grand prix.

Riders and officials will be hoping for good weather and a full turnout, as Bury have entered two teams in the Fours and hope for a god showing this year in the Junior League.