Newport Nocturne is back: bid for Pendleton - Cooke to star

The Shropshire Star Newport Nocturne, the first UK race to be  run under street lights, hopes to feature Olympic stars Victoria Pendleton and Nicole Cooke when it returns to the  Shropshire town this September 4, after being cancelled in 2009.

The popular bi-annual race which packs the streets with  spectators  has been a showcase for Britain's and Ireland's top  road and track stars including Mark Cavendish, Bradley Wiggins and in the Masters Race, Sean Kelly and former British pro champions Sid Barras and Keith Lambert.

It is organised by father and son team, Mick and Nick Jeggo and once again it has the full backing of Newport Council.

Nick Jeggo has had informal talks with British Cycling performance manager Shane Sutton about the possibility of inviting Britain's top female riders to the Nocturne. He  told the Shropshire Star: "We would love to see the likes of Victoria Pendleton, Lizzie Armitstead and Nicole Cooke take part."

He realises that  this depends upon their heavy international programme.

The format remains unchanged, with an elite race attracting Britain's top riders, past masters featuring famous  names from the past and an elite time trial.

Jeggo is looking for additional sponsorship. Details: 01952 810964