The Rake Hill Climb at Ramsbottom on Sunday was its usual big success with the many spectators but more of a problem for the riders with wet roads and fallen leaves making for a difficult ascent.

Reigning national champion Matt Clinton of Yorkshire was fastest to the top gaining himself the biggest slice of the generous prize list which was helped by funding from Bury Metro.

Our best local riders were Carl Helliwell and Chris Edmondson of Blackburn and District CTC in eighth and ninth places with Rossendale’s John Hartley in 11th slot.

All of these will be back in action on East Lancs roads next Sunday at 10am when the North Lancshire Road Club promote on the Nick o’Pendle climb from Sabden.

Organiser Mike Addis has just 25 entered for this one with Clinton going last man off at 10-25am.

Multi national champion and third on The Rake Jim Henderson from Southport is also in the field for the steep 1350-yard hill.

The last fling time trial on the competition 10-mile course at Levensnear Kendal will include a large number of East Lancs riders hoping for some good weather in which to clock up a personal best in their last chance at the distance this year.