Alfie is crowned champ

Abernyte’s Alfie George took the yellow jersey at Scottish Cycling’s Youth Tour of Scotland.

The prestigious event witnessed riders from across the UK, Ireland and the Isle of Man - aged between 13 and 16 - compete over four stages in the Perthshire countryside.

And 16-year-old Alfie, riding for Scottish Cycling North East, topped the pile at the end of the action in what was his last year before becoming a junior.

“The Youth Tour of Scotland is the best event there is in this country, I can’t fault it and really enjoy it,”Alfie said after his triumph.“It was definitely better weather this year too.

“The last stage is the best stage because it is like a gladiator fight, pushing up the steep hill so many times, you just have to keep going. I will be back to watch and see who takes it next year.”

In the girls’competition it was Elynor Backstedt from Team Wales who won the general classification.

Elynor, daughter of Magnus Backstedt, the former professional cyclist who won Paris-Roubaix in 2004, was a strong rider throughout the competition.

Over the weekend 150 youth riders took to the roads at the flagship event.

Sarah Macintyre, events manager for Scottish Cycling and event organiser, said:“The Youth Tour of Scotland is an event which gets better every year.

“The riders this year have shown some incredible determination, skill and talent. Alfie and Elynor were both very deserving winners.”

Scottish Cycling were full of thanks for the Perthshire area, adding:“We would like to thank Bridge of Earn Community Council of Forteviot and of Forgandenny, also to Forteviot Community for the teas and coffees at stage one.

“Also to St David’s village for being so welcoming – and an overall thank you to Perth and Kinross Council.

“We would also like to thank all of the staff at Strathallan School and our volunteers and officials - the Youth Tour of Scotland would not happen without them. We can’t wait for next year already.”