THE cream of British cycling descended on North Yorkshire today to pay their respects to Olympic and Commonwealth cyclist Peter Longbottom.

World champion riders, many of whom had put rigorous training schedules on hold, joined family and friends for the funeral at St Mary's Priory Church at Old Malton.

Mr Longbottom, 38, of Malton, died in an accident on the A64 as he was riding to York. Among the mourners was Barry Hoban who beat all records when he won 11 stages of the Tour de France in the 70s. He was joined by Knaresborough cyclist Charlie Burton, whose wife Beryl - seven times women's world champion - died tragically two year ago.

Riders from Mr Longbottom's York club Velo also attended - many wearing riding clothing in tribute to their colleague and friend.

The service was conducted by the Rev John Manchester who praised Mr Longbottoms's determination and success. "He was an outstanding sportsman who reached the highest echelon of his chosen sport," he told today's congregation.

He spoke of Mr Longbottom's achievements at the 1990 Commonwealth games, describing the bronze medal he won as "the pinnacle of his career."

On a more personal note, Mr Manchester, who conducted the wedding of Mr Longbottom and his wife, Lyn, in 1989, described how he used to see him training during his lunch hour and always admired his commitment.

Mr Longbottom was thrown off his bike near the Grimston Bar turn-off in York after a collision with a car in last Tuesday's evening rush-hour traffic.

Police said today that witnesses who can help them should contact them on 01904 631321.

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