Isle of Man youth cycling tour to boost national bid

A record 357 cyclists from across the British Isles contested the Isle of Man Youth Cycling Tour, a three-day-event on the island.

It is hoped the annual event's popularity will provide a boost to the island's bid to host the British Cycling National Road Championships in 2016.

Isle of Man Cycling secretary Emma Gell said: "It's a huge event for the Isle of Man, there will be future stars cycling in this race."

Over the years the Isle of Man Youth Tour has produced Olympic, World, European and British champions including Mark Cavendish and Peter Kennaugh.

British road race champion Cavendish has already backed the Isle of Man's bid to host the 2016 event.