East Sussex club In Gear has strengthened its racing squad by signing former Tour de France star Sean Yates from Forest Row and speedy Hastings rider Peter Tadros.

They will link up with established team members including James Dear, Jon Sharples and Dave Pollard to form what should be one of the top teams in the south.

One of their prime targets this year will be the national 25-mile championship which will be taking place in the South East.

Yates has also introduced his two brothers, Chris and Connell, to the club. Connell is new to cycling but Chris recorded some fast times six years ago, including 52 minutes for a 25-mile event, until he dropped out following a back operation.

The three rode in the Southborough Wheelers 10-mile time trial on New Year's Day. Sean won the event in 21min.47sec and his brothers also rode well to give In Gear the team prize.

Chris said: "I don't think I will be racing on a regular basis due to work commitments but I will help the club out from time to time.

"Connell is the youngster at 22. He has been involved with basketball until now but he may well race regularly if he thinks he can make a name for himself like Sean."

Dear also gave the club a win during the festive season when he romped home in Gemini BC's cyclo-cross race in Kent. Andy Seltzer (East Grinstead) finished sixth. Dear also placed third in an open race at Darenth and he is challenging for the overall lead in the London League.

Sussex riders are mourning the death of Hampshire official John Pendleton. Pendleton could be found most weeks during the summer judging and generally assisting in the running of the weekly races on the Goodwood circuit.