The Peak Hill Climb, on October 29, commemorates the life of a very popular local hotelier, Rodney Pyne, who loved to cycle the lanes of East Devon.

The Peak Hill Climb, on October 29, commemorates the life of a very popular local hotelier, Rodney Pyne, who loved to cycle the lanes of East Devon. Many people will remember his cheerful character, especially those who frequented the Mermaid Bar.Considered by local cyclists to be one of the toughest climbs in the area, Peak Hill has an average gradient of 20 per cent, or 1:5. After a gentle start on The Esplanade, riders gradually find it becomes increasingly steeper and it really starts to hurt around two-thirds of the way up! It does level out a bit in the last 150 metres, so a sprint to the line is possible.With an expected field of 100+ it might be possible to see the course record, currently held by James Dobbin (Derby) in 5 minutes 18 seconds, broken. First prize is £100.Top UK riders already signed on are last year's winner James Dobbin, Matt Clinton U21 British University Champ and top female riders like Ann Bowditch from Guernsey, who will be as fast as many male competitors. Local Sid Valley riders Phill and Glen Borrett should feature very well nationally as well as hoping to take fastest local rider currently held by Neil Tubbs in 6:31. Contact neiltubbs76@hotmail.com for more info or visit the website www.svcc.org