THE cream of young cycling talent from across the UK will take part in next year’s Minehead Grand Prix.

The event, which features cycle racing on a closed circuit in the town centre, will now feature part of British Cycling’s National Series Championships.

Following the success of this year’s grand prix, Minehead Cycling Club has been invited by British Cycling to host its Youth A and B competitions for girls and boys, meaning four extra races will take place involving the country’s the best young riders.

The event takes place over the weekend of June 22 and 23, with the national races running from late afternoon and into the evening on the Saturday, followed by the usual package of south west region events on the Sunday.

It is expected that each boys’ race will attract full fields of 80 riders, with 40 for each of the girls’ events.

Club chairman Neil Arnold said: “It’s a huge privilege to be asked to stage such a prestigious event."