Frustration for Cavendish and GB team

There was frustration for Manxman Mark Cavendish and the rest of the British team at cycling's World Championships.

Cavendish, the 2011 world champion, led the peloton and helped keep Britain in contention for much of the first 106km in Italy.

Heavy rain ultimately caused multiple crashes with Tour de France winner Chris Froome and Bradley Wiggins among the withdrawals, citing safety concerns.

All eight members of the GB team eventually pulled out with manager Rod Ellingworth accusing his riders of lacking commitment.

Portugal's Rui Costa was the winner after more than seven hours of racing in torrential conditions.