A FORMER Andover College student has signed a deal with Britain’s newest professional cycling team.

Mitchell Webber, 21, has signed for BIKE Channel Canyon ahead of their 2017 campaign.

The Charlton resident makes the switch from Fleet-based Pedal Heaven, along with eight team-mates and sports director Tim Elverson.

The former Andover College student will ride world-renowned Canyon bikes throughout the season and come under the spotlight of Sky television channel BIKE.

Webber said: “I’m really pleased and excited to be a part of BIKE Channel Canyon next season.

“From the first team get-together back in November, it was clear how well everyone was bonding and the confidence in the team was already there.

“I can’t wait to work with the BIKE Channel, who will be documenting a lot of our pre-season training along with the racing.

“I’m also really looking forward to racing on Canyon bikes next year, too.

“They seem to be racking up all the best bike awards at the moment.

“All in all, it looks like we have a brilliant year ahead.”

Chris Opie, one of Britain’s finest sprinters, has made the move from ONE Pro Cycling to become BIKE Channel Canyon’s lead rider.

George Atkins has crossed over from JLT Condor, while Rob Partridge and James Lowsley-Williams have arrived from NFTO.

Rory Townsend, Dexter Gardias, Jack Pullar, Max Stedman, Joe Fry, Harry Tanfield, Jake Womersley and Alex Richardson have all joined Webber from Pedal Heaven, who have ceased racing in the professional ranks.

And the squad is made up by Sam Lowe, formerly of Team Wiggins, and Matt Nowell, who will step up from the Wheelbase Altura team.

  • Follow Webber and the BIKE Channel Canyon team’s progress on social media, via Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and on the race team’s official website www.bikechannelcanyon.co.uk.