Shropshire cyclists are being given a helping hand to try racing. Ironbridge cycling company The Bicycle Hub is offering a sponsorship deal to people wanting to race in any discipline. The shop is looking for all standards of cyclist and sponsorship is not dependent on results. It is free to sign up but the offer closes on 31st March 2010.

To qualify for the sponsorship deal cyclists need to agree to take part in six British Cycling approved races in 2010. In return they get huge discounts on new bikes and on servicing. They will also jump the queue for servicing in The Bicycle Hub workshop. In addition they will be given a Bicycle Hub jersey to race in. The Bicycle Hub is registered with British Cycling as a cycle club so its riders won't need to pay to join a club.

Even cyclists who are already members of a cycling club can benefit from the sponsorship deal. As long as their existing club isn't sponsored, they will be able to race for the Bicycle Hub and their existing club. The Bicycle Hub will encourage its sponsored riders to train and travel together but there is no obligation on any sponsored rider to do this. You will need to join British Cycling.

Interested cyclists should check out the details on the web site, phone 01952 883249 or pop in to the shop in Jackfield, near Ironbridge, Telford.

Peter Bird is the Managing Director of The Bicycle Hub he explained why they have introduced the deal.

"As a business, we are driven by a passion to help everyone get the most out of their bicycles. We help leisure cyclists and touring cyclists by organising events they can take part in. We give advice and support to commuters. We've been talking to our customers and we know that there are a lot of people who would like to try racing but are reluctant to commit to joining a formal club. We only ask for six races across the year. Those could be off or on-road, full road racing or snappy time trialling. In return we are offering a package that we know people will really value."

"I think that this sponsorship deal is the first of its kind, certainly in Shropshire, maybe in the UK. Even though some really strong cyclists have agreed to race for us, this isn't about elite sport. This is about getting out on your bike and having a good time. The racing scene in Shropshire and South Staffordshire is really strong. With The Bicycle Hub behind you you'll be surprised at what you can achieve."