Geraint Thomas branches out into running a wedding venue

Geraint Thomas: Commonwealth road race champion, Olympic gold medallist, Volta ao Algarve winner, future Tour de France champion (possibly) and now wedding venue owner.

The 29-year-old Cardiff man and wife Sara Elen Thomas have submitted plans to turn the Grade II-listed St Tewdric’s House in Chepstow, Monmouthshire, into a wedding venue, after holding their own reception there last year, according to Wales Online.

The house was listed on the market for offers over £2.5million via property website Rightmove. Thomas has submitted plans to make alterations to the property to turn it into a wedding venue – but some of his neighbours have objected.

>>> Geraint Thomas continues rise to be one of Britain’s greatest-ever cyclists

Reportedly, police were called when fireworks were used at the venue at around 11pm during Thomas's reception. Those in the vicinity of the house are concerned that this would become a regular occurrence as up to 40 receptions could be held there every year.

"Farm animals and pets were reportedly frightened during that fireworks display," said Wales Online.

Watch: Geraint Thomas - Where it all began

Locals are also worried that traffic in the area would increase along the lanes surrounding the site. A coach reportedly became stuck on one of the narrow roads during the Thomas's wedding reception.

Monmouthshire council planning committee will consider Thomas's plans for St Tewdric’s House next week.

Having just won the Volta ao Algarve in Portugal last week, Thomas will be aiming for Paris-Nice on March 6-13.