THESE are exciting times for Tavistock Wheelers and the cycling club are on a roll after a special evening last week.

They gathered to celebrate the official launch of the road cycling team at the Terrace Restaurant in Tavistock as the team have attracted the sponsorship of North Shore Gallery of Tintagel.

Among the special guests were Mayor of Tavistock Harry Smith, Cllrs Debo Sellis and Mandy Ewings and North Shore Gallery owner Melanie Roberts.

Geoff Whitlow, the chairman of Tavistock Wheelers, said: 'There are 11 riders in the team and the age range is from 15 to 51. There is a great blend of youth and experience and they have all worked extremely hard over the past 21 months to reach the required standards.

'However, the financial support offered by the team's sponsors, North Shore Gallery, has enabled the riders to wear special, custom-made race kit and helmets, as well as make a commitment to compete in a much wider spread of race events throughout the country. Already the team has made a significant impact on the regional racing scene.'

He added:?'It is hoped that this year could see the next stage of the development of the Tavistock Wheelers and also help raise the profile of the town.'

'The sponsorship has enabled the club to take the next step forward in promoting cycling as a sporting activity for a range of abilities and age groups.

'In particular, we are pleased with the number of teenagers and female riders who have joined the Wheelers in the last 12 months. Our aim is to see Tavistock being recognised as a major centre for cycling activities and this can only have a positive impact on a range of local businesses. The race team will be a flagship for the club's development but there are are a number of other initiatives that are being planned for the Tavistock area over the next few months.'

For details see the Wheelers website at http://www.tavistockwheelers.com">www.tavistockwheelers.com