Bellis to make return to competitive cycling

Jonny Bellis is set to make his competitive comeback at the British National Road Race Championships this month after returning to cycling from a life-threatening crash.

The rider was left fighting for his life following a motor scooter accident last September but will take to the start line for the 180-kilometre event in Lancashire on June 27.

The 21-year-old Saxo Bank rider lines up alongside his fellow Manxman Mark Cavendish, who is favourite for the Tour de France green jersey despite a turbulent off-season.

Bellis, who has returned to his Quarratta training base in Italy, where the accident happened, has minimal expectations for the race, which takes place in Pendle.

"There wasn't much chance of me surviving at the beginning, but now my health's fine and my fitness is improving.

"There's still a lot to learn to do but I'm just going to ride the nationals to get back into the routine of racing.

"I don't expect much of myself – I'll just ride and see how long I can do - if it's 10km or 100km, I'll just be happy to pin a number on."