KINGSWINFORD cyclo-cross star Hannah Payton will be turning her attention to road racing this week when she takes part in the Setmana Ciclista Valenciana.

Former National Trophy Series champion Hannah will be representing DROPS Cycling, the only UK registered ladies team who will be contesting the four-day event in Southern Spain.

Dad Kevin Payton, who is the chairman of Stourbridge Cycling Club confirmed: “Hannah’s main focus will be on road racing this season. She’s currently in her third year at Birmingham University studying for a physiotherapy degree. The University have been very good and allowed her to split her third year into two.

“It meant Hannah had to study over the winter months and put the cyclo-cross to one side

“She warmed up for Valencia by winning the final Midland League Cyclo Cross race of the season at Gt Whitley but despite her lack of cyclo-cross racing, Hannah remains in pretty good shape, but this will be a baptism of fire in Valencia."

Unfortunately Kevin couldn’t emulate Hannah’s success in the cyclo-cross but did manage to finish second overall in the veteran’s 55 to 60 category of the Midland League this season.

Phil Glaze went one better by winning the Men’s Over-40s title while Anthony Neave secured further success for Stourbridge by winning the Men’s Under-23 title.

Pam Saunders also tasted success by coming first in the Women’s Over-55 competition while Amanda Whitehouse won the over-40 ladies title with Steve Whitehouse coming second in the Men’s Over-50 event.

Their efforts enabled Stourbridge CC to finish second overall in the competition behind local rivals Halesowen CC.

Kevin Payton added: “Cycling in all forms remains a boom sport and its popularity continues to grow. We had a record number of 189 members join us this season, beating last year’s number, which was also a record."