Cycling:  Usher IRC-rider Paul Healion yesterday took one of his biggest wins to date yesterday at the end of the five-day, six-stage P&O Tour of the North. The Dubliner defended his yellow jersey on the concluding 75-mile leg of the race, preserving the 36 second lead he had over Cyclestore.co.uk-rider Mike Harrison.

Richard Aldaheff (Orchard Wheelers) landed the stage honours yesterday, outsprinting Gordon Murdoch of Glenmarnock Wheelers.

Meanwhile, David O'Loughlin finished in the main bunch in the Rund Um Köln (Tour of Cologne) in Germany on Monday, crossing the line in 79th place. The victor, David Kopp (Team Wiesenhoff) finished six minutes up on the main field. He had been clear with Cedric Vasseur (Cofidis) and Tiaan Kannemeyer (Barloworld-Valsir) until being caught by 13 others with a few kilometres to go. However, he was strong enough to attack again and solo to a fine win.