Cunningham snatches historic gold

Cunningham's win was watched by a 10,000-strong crowd

Ruaridh Cunningham has won Britain's first ever men's gold medal in downhill mountain bike racing at the World Championships in Fort William.

The 18-year-old Scot put a near perfect run together in the junior event despite some testing conditions.

As he crossed the line to claim the rainbow jersey, he collapsed in the finish area, before draping himself in the cross of St Andrew.

He said: "It was rough and windy up the top but I pushed as hard as I could."

I think I'm dreaming Ruaridh Cunningham

Cunningham's team-mate Josh Bryceland suffered a puncture on an otherwise excellent run and Marcus Williams had a nasty crash after clipping his front wheel on a high speed jump.

Scot Chris Hutchens also put in a good ride but failed to take a podium place.

Cunningham added: "I think I'm dreaming. I was sitting up there just listening to music to stay relaxed and tried to ride the best I could.

606: DEBATE Give your reaction to Cunningham's win

"I could hear the crowd right from the start but when I came into the arena over the jump it just seemed to go silent.

"When I looked up I was ahead. I can't believe it."