Golden ticket

TOP tips (from left) Linda, Clair and Andrew with Ed Clancy

STAFF from First Bus in Mumps have turned to an Olympian to get them en route to racing success.

The marketing department colleagues were disappointed with their times at a cycling team event last year.

Determined to improve their performance, they approached one of Britain’s best cyclists — Olympic gold medalist and Team GB squad member Ed Clancy MBE — for some training tips.

He took time out of his busy training schedule to help Andrew Wright (37), Clair Plant (31) and Linda Davies (27) — known as Team Marketeers — prepare for the Manchester First Mini-Monster, which takes place at Philips Park, Clayton, on June 28.

Ed said: “I wish Team Marketeers the very best of luck – they will need it! It was great to see such spirit and enthusiasm and hopefully my tips will help!”

Team Marketeers hope Ed’s advice will make them early favourites. And with a free place for the winners guaranteed at the First Monster Challenge, a 120km team relay duathlon around the shores of Loch Ness, the stakes are high.

Andrew said: “Ed was a great help. Getting advice from an Olympic gold medalist was great. Our only problem now is getting fit!”

Entry is £5 per person, or £20 per team. A quarter of the fee goes to Save the Children. Visit www.first monster.com to register.