Wide-ranging reforms to the National Points Series (NPS) have been confirmed, with new organisers and title sponsor taking over the running of the UK’s premier XC series.

With backing from British Cycling and sponsorship from Whyte Racing UK, the NPS series dates have been confirmed, with venues yet to be finalised – organisers hope to report on locations in January 2008.

The format for the five dates will run with the NPS on Saturday, with the Whyte Racing Enduro Series, offering a choice of 50, 75 or 100km, on the following Sunday. Dates are 12/13 April, 10/11 May, 14/15 June, 23/24 August and concluding on 13/14 September.

The changes signal a departure of the previous organiser Martyn Salt and sponsors Trek Bikes. The new team are the same responsible for the popular Thetford Dusk ‘till Dawn 12-hour event.

Organiser Paul Hore is understandably delighted with the news, saying: “While all the venues are yet to be confirmed, the dates are set and we’re working feverishly to get the venues secured in time for the New Year. “

“There are some exciting new venues and some familiar favourites. We’re pleased to be working with Whyte, designers and manufacturers of bicycles specifically designed for and tested on UK trails. If we can match their energy and enthusiasm, it’s going to be a great year!“

It’s good news too for Whyte Bikes, already involved with many top UK events, as Whyte UK Brand Manager says: “This is the perfect opportunity for Whyte to show what we are made of teaming up this Great British brand with a Great British series.”

While the dates have been confirmed, the venues are still being sought. Until then, a new website www.britishnps.co.uk has been setup, with such useful features as a ‘Coach’s Corner’, offering top advice from Andrew Patterson of Patterson Training.