Top British cyclists set for Newport Nocturne

Some of British cycling's leading female stars - including Victoria Pendleton and Nicole Cooke - are being lined up to compete in this year's Shropshire Star Newport Nocturne.

Race organisers have confirmed that the event, postponed last year, will take place on September 4. And organiser Nick Jeggo said he had already made contact with British Cycling over the availability of some of the country's top riders.

He said: "What we perhaps looking to do is to try and get some of the top class female cyclists down here. We would love to see the likes of Victoria Pendleton, Lizzie Armistead and Nicole Cooke take part.

"We haven't got anything confirmed yet but it is definitely something we are looking into.

"We have had some really great riders here in the past and we would love to get Mark Cavenidsh back. He's an even bigger name now than he was when we had him three years ago.

"We've had Bradley Wiggins here in the past and to try and attract people like that back would be great.

"It all comes down to British Cycling and with the World Championships coming up soon after our event a lot of the availability depends on the riders' preparation for those and what sort of events they are entering."

Jeggo added the format will remain much the same with an elite race, past masters event and time trail.

He said: "We haven't fixed the final details of the day yet but it will be similar to what we usually do.

"We will be sticking with the same format as when we last held it in 2007 and will be keeping it pretty much the same."

Race organisers are still looking for sponsorship to help fund the event. Anyone interested can contact Nick Jeggo on 01952 810964.