Spectators lined the streets of Darlington town centre this evening as cyclists took part in the British National Road Championships.

Residents were on hand to welcome the competitors with cheers of encouragement from behind the guard rails as the event kicked off with the women’s race at 6:35pm yesterday (June 21).

The race saw the riders begin on West Row, before making their way through Houndgate, Feethams, Tubwell Row, and Crown Street, before finishing on West Row.

The Open National Championships Race took place at 8:20pm.

Residents could be seen gathering on Blackwellgate as the athletes bombed down the track, weaving through the route.

Passersby watched on and offered words of encouragement to the riders taking part in the competition.

Speaking before the event, a spokesperson for TVCA said: “Riders will face a tricky, technical circuit through the town’s tree-lined suburbs and town centre streets with plenty of opportunities for exciting racing.

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“The races promise to deliver an exhilarating midsummer’s evening of top-class cycling in Darlington town centre with the chance to cheer on the UK’s best riders.”

Tees Valley Mayor, Ben Houchen, said:  “It will be fantastic to welcome back the British National Road Championships to our region, which is continuing to grow as a cycling destination.   

“These routes will not only challenge the best cyclists in the country but also provide a great showcase for everything Tees Valley has to offer for visitors.” 

The competition will make its way to Saltburn on Sunday (June 23) for the road race.