AN ELLESMERE-based cyclist has been celebrating after achieving excellent results in a multi day amateur event in Europe.

Kirk Vickers, 25, is part of Holohan Coaching Race Team, which has just returned from the Haute Route Dolomites.

The three-day competitive event, features more than 250km of racing and over 8,000 metres of climbing in the mountains surrounding Cortina in the Italian Dolomites.

The course included iconic climbs such as the towering Passo Giau and Passo Pordoi and saw all members of the team finish in the top 25, out of almost 400 competitors.

Chris Pook, who took part in the race and manages and sponsors the team with Ben Lawrence, said: “Liam had carefully reconnoitred the course before the event and briefed the riders about what was in store.

“He supported the riders each day by being present at strategic points to ensure there was food and drink when required.”

Kirk Vickers, Chris Pook, 36 and his brother, Tom Pook, 31, both from Shrewsbury, and Matt Davies, 36, of Minsterley, took park in the full distance, which finished with a 17km time trial up to Passo Giau to 2,220 metres on the final stage.

Ben Lawrence said: “All four rode superbly with Matt making his come back to racing after almost nine months recovering and getting fit again after a nasty accident last August.

"He eventually finished 12th overall but knows there is plenty more left in the tank!”

Kirk took 11th overall and fifth in the final time trial, while Tom Pook and Chris Pook were 21st and 24th overall respectively out of a total field of 400.

“It was a great overall team result,” said Ben. “I am very proud of them all.”