In Italy it's full-on stardom when you're a cyclist - eating in restaurants for free, it's great.

But human nature dictates that there will always be cheaters. That's inevitable. Where there's money involved and glory, there are going to be people that cheat, and there will always be ways to cheat.

I had grown used to getting a pat on the back and being told after a good result: 'Well done, David - you should be happy, you're the first clean rider.

I might have changed, but that did not mean the sport had.

I think cycling has always had a tradition of being a bit dapper, especially back in the day.

I've been proud to be national champion. I've really enjoyed it. I have very little opportunity to remind people that I'm British and it's a nice way of staying in touch. I'm going to defend it fiercely. I want to keep it.

I've been proud to be national champion.