PROMISING Hagley cycling star Matt Clarke stormed to his maiden win at the Derby Mercury road race.

The youngster, who has put in a string of impressive performances since joining Halesowen Cycling club last year, finished in front of a strong field which contained some notable riders.

Clarke was quickest up a steep hill finish, in which the gradient reached upwards of 20 per cent.

Although Clarke won a circuit race at Stourport last year, this was his first win on the road.

He said: “I felt perfect this morning, it’s the best feeling ever.”

Clarke’s aim for the year the Junior Tour of Wales at the end of August. Jacob James, another talented junior rider from Stourbridge, will also ride the event.