British Cycling celebrated four years of success in both the elite arena and increased participation, as athletes, coaches, staff and guests gathered at Manchester’s Hilton hotel for the International Gala Dinner.

Opened by British Cycling CEO Ian Drake, who summarised an historic four years, which saw Britain’s first Tour de France winner, 12 Olympic and 22 Paralympic medals and perhaps most importantly cycling capturing the imagination of sports fans and the general public alike, the tone for the evening was clearly set.

Speeches by Hugh Robertson, Minister for Sport, and Robert Tansey, Director of Brand Strategy and Marketing from Sky were followed by appearances on stage by those achieving sporting success.

Interviewed by Hugh Porter 2012 Tour de France winner and Olympic gold medallist Bradley Wiggins led proceedings from the athletes and was joined by Sir Chris Hoy, Mark Cavendish, Laura Trott, Ed Clancy, Lizzie Armitstead, Annie Last, Rachel Atherton, Sarah and Barney Storey, Neil Fachie, Philip Hindes, Jess Varnish and Liam Phillips.