The race was fast and lively from the start, with numerous attacks on the 65-strong bunch.

Thomas stayed active on the front of the bunch who closed down a seven-rider breakaway who had gained 45 seconds at one point.

Two riders jumped again and managed to stay away until the uphill sprint finish.

Thomas led the chase up to the finish and was just pipped for third place on the line.

In his first road race, Jacob showed much promise with an impressive 10th place.

Thomas bagged seventh in the previous day's Victoria Park third-category circuit race.

Wheelers' first time trial of the season was a two-up 10-mile event held on Gorse Lane on a wet and cold Tuesday night.

The inclement conditions reduced entry to just five pairs, and two riders rode on their own.

The pairing of veteran Dave Strickson and junior Tom Mendham produced a winning result with a time of 24min 2sec.

Jim Coleman posted the fastest time, covering the out and back course in 23:51.

Others: Peter Barnes and Jacob Doughty 28:58, Mike Lewis and Tim Lewis 29:00, Bill Harrison and Bill Wilson 33:16, Dave Beckett and Dean Dunn 33:51; Jacob Storey 25:38.