A YOUNG cyclist from Tetbury has been chosen to ride in the 2014 Friends Life Tour of Britain.

James Lowsley-Williams is just 22 years old but has already taken part in a collection of prestigious races since 2008, riding alongside Sir Bradley Wiggins on one occasion.

James has been named as a member of the six-man Not For The Ordinary team competing in the prestigious race, which began on Sunday September 7.

As he cycled Stage Four on September 10 he passed his former primary school, Acorn School in Nailsworth, only five miles from his Elizabethan family home near Tetbury, Chavenage House.

He said: “The Tour of Britain is the biggest cycle race in the UK. It is the one race that every British pro wants to ride, and with only six spaces available in the team it is always very competitive. For a British rider riding in front of a home crowed is something quite special.”

He added: “After tour of Britain I will sit down with my coaches to look at goals for 2015 and beyond. The 2016 Olympics will definitely be on the list!”