ORGANISERS of a popular cycle festival in Aberystwyth say it will be "better than ever" despite the 11th-hour loss of one of its main attractions.

The Pearl Izumi Tour Series stage, held in Aberystwyth for the last six years, was axed by organisers Sweetspot just 10 weeks before it was set to return in May – citing “a new format in 2017” and “changes to the route throughout the UK”.

However, organisers say the Aber Cycle Fest, which was built around the event, will continue this year despite the loss.

Shelley Childs said that an elite race is being organised to replace the Tour Series event, which is now being held in Stevenage, Hertfordshire.

“All the other events we have built over the years - the hill climb, downhill, kids’ races and town versus gown events will all still be there,” he said.

“We will make sure that we put on a show as usual. It was a blow to have been hanging on so long for a decision on it, but we are confident the festival will still be a success.”

See this week’s Aberystwyth edition for the full story, in shops and online now