Cycling: 2023 Hamper Race taking place this weekend

This year's event also forms Manx National Championship road race

New Year's Eve will see the 2023 edition of a high-calibre festive cycling event which this year comes with a twist.

The Hamper 2023 sees a mix of riders both social and competitive take part in a 40km handicapped race in Jurby which has attracted top names in the past including Mark Cavendish and Peter Kennaugh.

Cavendish is signed on to be involved this year alongside several other high-profile Manx cyclists including Ben Swift, Tyler Hannay, Max Walker and Sam Brand.

There's an extra edge to this year's race as it will also form the Manx National Championship road race - the first riders will set off this morning at 10am.

Niall Quiggin, director and treasurer of the Manx Viking Wheelers Club, thinks it's good that this competition always attracts such a diverse field of competitors: