FARNHAM Festival of Cycling came to an exciting conclusion on July 8, when riders gathered in the evening for the Town Centre Races (TCR) sponsored by Charters Peugeot.

This was the second year TCR has taken place, and with children’s races sponsored by Farnham Town Council, the start area in South Street was buzzing with riders of all ages.

Onlookers lined the streets and supported the riders, who came not only from local clubs such as VC Meudon, Charlotteville CC and VC Godalming & Haslemere, but also Solent Pirates, London Dynamo, Cotswold Veldrijden and Mid Cornwall CC.

Cafés and pubs also entered into the spirit of the event, with the United Reformed Church offering spectators a prime viewing spot and Spire Café providing a barbecue and refreshments.

Mayor of Farnham, David Attfield, started the event by dropping the flag. Racing was fast and furious with crowds kept in suspense as to who would be first to cross the line.

Town clerk, Iain Lynch, and the mayor both “expressed their desire” for TCR to become a permanent fixture on the town’s calendar, according to race organisers.

Results from the senior races were:

• Urology Partners - Men’s (third category):

1. Paul Hopkins (Merida Factory Racing)

2. Jamie Norfolk (Pedalon.co.uk)

3. Owen Blandy (Private member).

• Hoops Velo/FOUR4TH Lights - Women’s (two/three/four category):

1. Abigail Dentus (Team Breeze)

2. Jessica Finney (Cycle Team OnForm)

3. Francesca Cutts (CC London).

• Pedal Heaven - Men’s (E/one/two category):

1. Alec Briggs (TEKKERZ CC)

2. Oliver Richardson (Twickenham CC)

3. Benjamin Marks (Morvélo Basso RT).

After the event, spectators and riders took to social media to applaud the race, with Tim commenting on Facebook: “Thank you to the organisers and people of Farnham for a great night which showcased your lovely town.”

Adam added on Instagram: “Hottest day of the year and it was tongue out and full gas for the Morvelo Basso team at Farnham TCR. Great course and awesome atmosphere.”