TORRENTIAL rain greeted the competitors as they headed up the notoriously steep (25% in places) Porlock Hill - riding through the river coming down the road was not for the faint hearted.

Disappearing into the gloom, former national champion Andrew Feather set the fastest time (9 minutes 19 seconds), closely followed by Ed Laverack whose seated style suited the difficult conditions.

Illi Gardner, shivering with cold at the start, was the fastest woman (11.41).

With a two hour turn around before the ascent of the 4 mile 6% Porlock Toll Road riders struggled to get warm again. This didn't seem to bother Ed Laverack ( 14.12) who turned in another excellent time to take the win, followed by Iain Duffield and Arion Oates.

The overall winners for the "Triple" (Bridgwater CC's Crowcombe and the two Porlock climbs) went to Ed Laverack and Illi Gardner, confirming that they are today's top national hillclimbers. Geoff Ware was the best local rider to complete all three climbs.

Event organiser Louise Crossman said: "We were on the verge of cancelling the event when the thunder and lightning arrived but, encouraged by the stoicism of marshals and competitors, decided to keep going. I'm very impressed by all those who helped on the day, many thanks to all. Minehead CC would like to thanks GTH, Singer Instruments and Miles Tea and Coffee for their support."