The Lincolnshire legs and routes for Britain’s top cycling event have been revealed.
The Tour of Britain will hold the first and second legs of the men’s event in the county on Wednesday, September 2 and Thursday, September 3.
There are plenty of points for spectators to witness the peloton as it comes to the county for the first time.
The first 113-mile leg will begin in Lincoln’s Castle Square before venturing out into the Lincolnshire Wolds, taking in Market Rasen, Binbrook, Caistor and Waddingham.
It will conclude with five laps around the Lincoln Grand Prix circuit, including the gruelling climbs up Michaelgate, for a total of 1315 metres of ascent.
The next day, cyclists will head to Boston for a flatter 111-mile route, passing through Woodhall Spa, Horncastle and Wragby, and Louth.
They’ll then ride to Mablethorpe, make one last climb up Langton Hill, finishing with a sprint finish towards Skegness.
It’s hoped that the council-backed event will provide a windfall of publicity and tourism for the county.
Councillor Natalie Oliver, who is in charge of culture at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “Bringing such a prestigious race to our area will be hugely inspiring for our children and young people, giving them the opportunity to see elite athletes up close and encouraging them to get involved in cycling and lead active, healthy lives.”
The following three legs of the men’s event will take place across Yorkshire and the Scottish Borders.
The organisers claim last year’s race led to £40 million of benefits across the host areas.
A 2027 leg in Lincolnshire could also be on the cards if the first is a success, the council has said.
Article by Jamie Waller (Local Democracy Reporter)
