THIS SATURDAY'S opening Springtime Pursuit Series cycle race, the first event of the South-West season, will go ahead — but only after prompt road-repair action by East Devon District Council.

The recent snow and ice has left potholes in many roads around the country.

That has led to races being cancelled because of the dangerous conditions.

The 'sold out' Springtime Series is staged by Kingsteignton's Mid-Devon CC/Colin Lewis Cycles.

But it is run over a course based on the old A30 east of Exeter.

Race organiser Ken Robertson, of Paignton, explained: "I was told of potholes on our course on January 26.

"I e-mailed East Devon the same day, they got back to me immediately and the repair work was done by February 4.

"Councils get enough stick and hammer when people think they don't do things.

"But we're very pleased with such prompt action.

"I have already thanked them on behalf of all the riders."

Robertson has a full field of 80 riders, plus a ten-strong first-ever ladies' race, with reserves hoping for a late entry.

Saturday's first-of-three races, over 32 miles, starts from Rockbeare at 2.30pm, with a dozen Junior riders first away.

They will be followed at intervals by five other groups, finishing with the fastest men.

They will include last year's winner Jake Durant from Chudleigh Knighton and former champion Marcin Bialoblocki (Wilier/Big Maggys.com), a Polish-born pro from Taunton.

The Ladies' race starts at 2.40pm.

The strength of bike racing locally is underlined by the presence of 22 riders from the host Mid-Devon club.