After 68 miles of hard, fast racing around Abergavenny, the Kibworth teenager timed his effort to perfection to take control of proceedings in the latter stages.

As he entered the Welsh market town, Atkins (17) and Tim Kennaugh sprinted for the finish line and the champion’s jersey in an exciting showdown.

Atkins had the greater turn of speed and crossed the line with arms aloft to secure his first national title – and boost his Olympic aspirations.

He said afterwards: “What a relief! I really needed a big result and today, everything fell into place. This is for sure my biggest win to date.

“Early on I rode really conservatively, which I don’t do that often. I saved myself and used what I had when I needed to. I knew I was quicker in the sprint.”

Despite his elation at the result, there was little time for Atkins to celebrate – he was soon heading for Belgium to compete in this week’s European Time Trial and Road Race.

l Fleckney’s Matt Barrett (KTM) dominated round four of the National Points Mountain Bike Series held in the New Forest.

The challenging and relentless course was made even harder as the temperatures soared. But Barrett set a hot pace as he cruised to another series victory, just ahead of another local talented rider, Chris Rathbone (Websters Cycles), who secured his highest position in a national round.

l More cycling results on p55.