OFFICIALS have spoken of their delight after it was revealed today (February 10) that the region will host two stages of the Tour of Britain 2022.

The cycle race, which will be beamed to a global audience, will visit the North East for the stage three on September 6 and will start in Redcar the following day as it winds through North Yorkshire in stage four.

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Councillor Mary Lanigan, Leader of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, said: “We have worked hard to secure this national cycling race and are very privileged to be welcoming these elite riders to Redcar and Cleveland.

"There are many fans of cycling across our borough and the number of people who turned out to support at previous events was spectacular; even in the midst of Covid restrictions last year.

“Our teams will be liaising with organisers on the optimum route and will be doing everything possible to ensure the event runs smoothly and successfully.

The Northern Echo:

The Tour of Britain 2021 heads through St Ives Picture: SWpix

"Roadside spectators will bring welcome custom for our local businesses too.

"We are very lucky to live in an area which lends itself so well to events like this, which in turn benefit our local economy.”

It is not the first time the area has played host to premier cycling events and big names, with the East Cleveland Klondike passing through in 2017, ‘18 and ‘19 and Guisborough being selected for the Tour Series 2021.

While the Tour Series was an adrenaline-pumping afternoon of fast laps, the Tour of Britain will provide a festival-like atmosphere, as the peloton moves through several of our towns and villages on a yet-to-be finalised route.

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There will be plenty of opportunities to get involved in community activities to support the race and celebrate the area - such as best dressed high street competitions, land art and more.

Councillor Louise Westbury, cabinet member for climate change and culture, said: “We are delighted to have Britain’s biggest race starting in Redcar and moving through our borough – it’s a wonderful opportunity to show the world what a great place the area is to visit.

“It will be particularly exciting for our children and young people to see the cycling elite in the place that they live, and to show off the area to countries who watch around the world.

The Northern Echo:

The Tour of Britain has previously visited North Yorkshire Picture: NYCC

"What could be more inspiring for our children than to see the professionals on their own doorstep.”

The race’s fanbase will also be buoyed by the news that the Tour will return to Yorkshire for stage four for the first time since 2009, when York welcomed the opening day’s finish. 

North Yorkshire County Council leader Cllr Carl Les said: “We are delighted to once again welcome major competitive cycling to North Yorkshire.

"The route the race will take within the county is currently being finalised to provide a thrilling ride while maximising opportunities for people to enjoy the race.

“As soon as the details are announced, I’m sure our communities will want to begin planning how they will welcome and celebrate the event and cycling fans across the county and beyond will be able to plan how they will watch."

 

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