Evergreen Derwentside CC rider Ronnie Thompson celebrated his 85th birthday in style this week, competing in the club’s mid-week time trial wearing number 85 before marking the milestone with friends, cake and drinks.

Thompson was first rider off in the event, using a sporting course just under ten miles. He clocked 38-15 to notch up another ride for the affable club member.

Ronnie only started cycling at the relatively old age of 67, having been a footballer in his younger years. He was invited along to a club event by a friend, Patrick, who lent him a bike and a pair of size nine cycling shoes – not ideal for a man with size seven feet.

The event was won by former national cyclo-cross champion Thomas Mein, a former Derwentside CC member before turning professional, who just edged out Ronnie and the rest of the field with a time of 21-53.

Club official Sharon Dyson said: “The pub was packed to the rafters afterwards as everyone gathered to sing happy birthday and gorge on some beautiful home baking! It was a truly brilliant night for a very lovable bloke.”

* Photos by Bryan Laycock and Sharon Dyson.