British Cycling says it is looking to help Porn Pedallers Cycling Club meet UCI rules, acknowledging the “excellent work” it does in charity fundraising.

As we reported yesterday, the national governing body revoked the affiliation of the club, whose members work in the adult entertainment industry, because its name contravened UCI regulation 1.1.089, introduced at the start of this year.

Porn Pedallers posted an extract on Tuesday evening from the email received from British Cycling.

Many of the club’s followers on social media expressed anger at British Cycling’s decision, pointing out that members of Porn Pedallers have raised thousands of pounds for charity, in particular the Terrence Higgins Trust.

Because the regulation in question is laid down by the UCI, rather than British Cycling itself, the national governing body has little room for flexibility, although it has now said in a statement that it is working with Porn Pedallers to see if a way can be found to help the club comply.

“Our network of clubs does fantastic work within their communities, encouraging cycling participation and promoting other numerous societal benefits,” said British Cycling.

“The club in question, for example, does excellent work in raising money for charity, and has a loyal and active membership.

“We try to support everyone who actively encourages others to take up cycling, and we appreciate the efforts of everyone who contributes to our sport.

“As such, we are talking with the club and offering constructive advice on what it will take for them to meet with regulations.”

The story has made national headlines since we reported it yesterday and is covered in most of today’s national newspapers – as well as on last night’s Sky News press preview.