Strong all-rounder Simon Skillicorn crosses the finish line on Port Erin promenade to win the 2018 Bikestyle End to End mountain bike challenge on Sunday.

Into a headwind for much of the 43.5-mile distance, the Port Soderick man was involved in a close contest for the honours with Alex Rockwell, Ross Thorley and teenager Max Walker.

But when punctures hit all of his main rivals, 45-year-old Skillicorn came home first, 48 seconds in front of Brendan Downey, with a time of 3hr 20min 52sec to secure the honours for the first time.

Lizzie Holden was the leading female in 21st place. Full report in Thursday’s Manx Independent.