THOUSANDS lined Durham’s cobbled streets last night to witness the thrills and spills of a high-speed cycle race featuring some of the sport’s top stars.

Former British Road Race champion Kristian House was  individual and sprint competition winner in an elite field of riders including double Olympic gold medallist Ed Clancy.

They went wheel to wheel through the city, hosting the second round of the Pearl Izumi Tour Series.

The Northern Echo: Pearl Izumi Tour

The team competition went to Team Raleigh, which has now won both of the opening two stages.

The rider recording the fastest lap was Niklas Gustavsson.

Organisers described it as "a very good race" and the  best spectator turn out for a Durham stage yet.

The riders - including the North-East’s Velo 29-Blackhawk squad - took part in dozens of gruelling laps of a circuit described as purgatory by many seasoned racers.

Starting outside Durham School, they raced down the steep Crossgate, and hit a thrilling, sharp right-hand corner before tackling the punishing, cobbled climb of South Street and calling on whatever energy they had left for a sprint finish along Grove Street.

Crowds lined the route to cheer on the competitors, enjoying the early summer sunshine and the high-speed action of the race.

Simon Henig, leader of Durham County Council, said: "It's fantastic to be back for a fourth year. This event brings people into Durham and gives us national exposure.

"We are now developing a reputation for cycling. With the Lindisfarne Gospels, the Regatta, Lumiere and the Brass Festival, there's a lot on offer.

"Many major cities would be delighted to have what we have."

Durham was hosting the series for the fourth consecutive year. The 11-stage tour began in Kirkcaldy, Scotland, on Tuesday.

The action now moves to Stoke-on-Trent on Tuesday. The series’ grand final will be in Ipswich on Friday, June 14.

Highlights of the Durham race will be shown on ITV4 at 10pm tomorrow night (Friday).