RETAILERS and food and drink businesses in a North-East city are being urged to stay open to make the most of a premier cycling event.

Durham County Council made the call as Durham City prepares to welcome huge crowds for next week’s Halfords Cycle Race.

This year the Durham stage kicks off the race series at 7pm on Tuesday, offering an exciting spectator event up and down Durham City’s streets and cobbles.

In addition to the race, which was held for the first time in the city last year, a variety of activities celebrating cycling will take place throughout the day in the city and on the course before the race proper begins.

County council head of sport and leisure, Steve Howell, said: "With this year’s event expected to attract even more than the 3,000 people who attended last year we want our local businesses to make the most of the opportunities and show everyone what a great retail centre we have here."

"We very much hope families will come and eat in the city while enjoying the pre race events and that shops and cafes will be able to feel the financial benefits by opening longer."

The route will start and end at Durham School and include Margery Lane, Crossgate Bank, South Street and Grove Street. It will be broadcast on ITV at 8pm on Wednesday, May 25.