Historic bike race cancelled

5:19pm Monday 18th February 2008

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A 50-YEAR-OLD cycle race has been cancelled after police told organisers they would be unable to provide support this year.

The Archer Grand Prix was to take place on April 20 but now organisers say the landmark event cannot run for safety reasons.

Police been present at the race in previous years, he said, to stop traffic where necessary.

Now the police had pulled out the organisers had no choice but to cancel the event.

Organiser Stuart Benstead, of The Archer Road Club, said he had been told it was not the policy of Thames Valley Police to provide support for events on public roads.

He added that the club had been prepared to pay for any police manpower needed.

Mr Benstead said: "We're very choked. I happened to be sitting at a cycle circuit I volunteer at and some riders were warming up and they were both saying how disappointed they are."

The race traditionally starts near Hazlemere, before heading north into the heart of the Chiltern Hills.

Riders then battle their way up Whiteleaf Hill, near Princes Risborough, before passing through Cryers Hill and ending in Winchmore Hill.

In the past it has seen cycling stars such as Chris Boardman and Chris Newton take part.