Colne Grand Prix 2010 results

Almost 2,000 spectators watched on as local club riders and some of Britain's elite cyclists battled it out on the 800 metre track around Colne town centre.

Many of the 70 riders in the elite race were still in contention in the final laps, as the bunch began to close in rapidly on the leaders.

Larry Hickmott, of British Cycling, described it as the most nail biting finish in the British Cycling's National Circuit Race Series so far.

In the end, Dean Downing, who came third last year, stormed past the finish line in first place, after going head-to-head with Ed Clancy throughout the last third of the race.

To the crowd's surprise and delight, Barnoldswick rider Ian Wilkinson, who won the Colne Grand Prix in 2008 and was the overwhelming favourite to win this year's race, came up from behind to land second place, after being almost half a lap behind the leaders mid-race.

Olympic Gold medallist Ed Clancy scooped third place, with another 40 riders not far behind.

Dean Downing said: "I had to go so fast on the last two corners to be sure of the win that I was scraping my pedals on the road! It was good to win tonight and it's nice beating an Olympic record holder."

Pendle Council's Regeneration Director Brian Cookson, who is also President of British Cycling, said: "This was probably the best Colne Grand Prix so far.

"The big crowd had an exciting evening, starting with races for local children, then club riders, then the elite field, where an hour of super-fast racing ended in one of the tightest finishes ever!"

"Thanks to everyone who came out to support the event, and special thanks to sponsors Barnfield Construction.

"A great evening was had by all."

Other local riders taking part in the elite race, included Colne's Olympic bronze medallist Steven Burke and Trawden rider Paul Oldham, who ranks amongst the UK's elite.

Another 50 cyclists took part in the support race, which was won by Bill Nickson of Leyland.

The Worshipful the Mayor of Pendle, Councillor Tony Beckett, presented the awards and said: "What a great evening's sport - I am full of admiration for these superb cyclists, who put on a superb show for Colne and again helped put Pendle on the map."

The race was run under British Cycling regulations and was organised by Cycling Development North West and Pennine Events, with support from Pendle Council.

As well as the main sponsors Barnfield Construction, local florists Going Dutch were another of the race's sponsors - providing bouquets for the winners.

Asda also gave its kind support to the event, offering £300 worth of water, refreshments, and flowers and cava for the winners.

• More on the Colne Grand Prix here at the British Cycling website