Mark Cavendish’s World Championship victory has prompted one of the oldest cycling clubs in the UK to help young riders emulate the Manx Missile’s success.

Catford Cycling Club is celebrating its 125th anniversary by launching the Junior Teen Talent Team. The development squad of eight riders will be run along professional lines and fully financed by the club.

Among the benefits received by riders will be free team kit, basic expenses, paid entry fees, a free racing licence, a following vehicle in CCC livery, team training on road and track, weekly group sessions, trips abroad, individual coaching and free massage. A £500 prize will be awarded to the best junior come the end of the year.

“We are keen to help all juniors so we are offering them reduced fees and will provide them with a free club jersey,” said newly-appointed junior team manager James Green.

“However, for this innovative project we are not only just helping raw recruits to get promoted to our top team, but are inviting applications to join our new development squad from talented teenagers who have already shown potential and proven ability.”

The team is limited to riders in the south east. Applicants should contact James ([email protected]) with details of their experience.