OVER 700 riders from across the country flocked to Bournemouth to take part in the final rounds of the HSBC UK National BMX Series.

Bournemouth BMX Club, which is based in Iford Lane, hosted the event between August 9 and 11, which included recently crowned world champions.

Around 2,500 people, including spectators, travelled to Bournemouth for the series which last visited the town almost 10 years ago.

The first day of racing had to be postponed to be bad weather, however, the event was able to continue the following day.

John Twitchen, vice chairman of Bournemouth BMX Club, said many had described it as the best BMX national ever.

Mr Twitchen, who has been involved with the club for the past five years, said: “We had riders from the top end of Scotland to British riders who were on their way back from the world championships in Holland.”

Riders of all ages took part with categories for children under six to people aged over 50. The event adopted a single use plastic-free approach with a cup deposit return scheme and refill stations with the club’s race shirts even made from recycled plastic bottles.

Mr Twitchen added: “Everyone had a great day out in Bournemouth. We’ve had the best feedback.”

In January, the Daily Echo reported the club had submitted plans to build a new spectator area, install new safety fencing and carry out repairs to the track ahead of the competition.

Bournemouth BMX Club was founded in 1981 and is one of the oldest in the UK. There will be coaching sessions taking place over the winter. For more information visit facebook.com/groups/BournemouthBMXclub.