A BAPTIST minister has criticised Velothon bosses saying the race had disrupted church services and should be held on Saturdays.

Around 15,000 pro and amateur cyclists took part in Sunday’s inaugural bike ride through Gwent, which raised £500,000 for charity.

But Upper Trosnant Baptist Church Rev Richard Harrison said the event should be held on Saturdays in future years as Sunday is traditionally a rest day.

He added that church services around Pontypool had to be moved to Saturday and some worshippers had been unable to attend Sunday services owing to road closures.

Rev Harrison told the Argus: “15,000 cyclists tearing down the valley is a marvellous sight.

“But why must it be held on a Sunday? Saturday is the day for sport. Sunday is a day for rest and worship of our creator and of his son.”

He added: “A number of churches were affected. Some had services on Saturday.

“There is a time and a place for everything. I certainly don’t believe Sunday should be invaded by professional sport.”

Andy Taylor, events director of Velothon Wales, said yesterday: “Velothon Wales is the most popular Velothon we have ever run anywhere in the world in terms of number of registered riders in year one.

“The people of Wales came out in their thousands to support the riders and watch the pro race and, thanks to the fine weather, everyone got to see Wales at its best.

“This is one of the biggest cycling events in the world and we have delivered it here in Wales – safely, successfully and with as minimum as disruption as possible which was always our biggest priority.”