British riders have excelled in the Tour de France in recent years, but the Brits have been kicking A in the Classics for decades - we pick our own 'Top 12' - with video.

Years before he met a tragic end on the slopes of the Mont Ventoux during the 1967 Tour, Tom Simpson had become the first British rider ever to wear the yellow jersey in 1962.

Retro Interview: Roche, Kelly, Kimmage and Early were all top Irish road men in the 80s, but there was two pioneer riders from the Emerald Isle who burst onto the continental scene before them - Shay Elliott and Peter Crinnion were battling in the pro peloton when 'Anglos' were a novelty. Ed Hood caught up with Peter to hear his tale.

2015 marks the 50th anniversary of Tom Simpson’s victory at the 1965 Road Cycling World Championships in San Sebastian, Spain.