West Bridgford – Mansfield

The third longest stage of the race since its relaunch in 2004, this Nottinghamshire stage is also the flattest this year. Like that in Warwickshire, this is a snaking, meandering parcours that gives fans the chance to see it in multiple spots should they be motivated to do so. It will also pass by the home of Nottingham Forest Football Club and world famous Trent Bridge cricket ground. History shows that whoever is wearing the leader’s jersey at the end of today will likely keep it until the end as it rarely changes hands in London.

West Bridgford becomes a host venue for the first time this year, while the stage finish of Mansfield is hosting for the second time. It played host to a stage start for last year’s event.

DIRECTOR’S COMMENTARY

Andy Hawes: “Unlike last year’s stage in Nottinghamshire, where we only managed to find one KOM, this year we have been able to get three. They aren’t as tough as anything that we have done to this point, but they’re KOMs nonetheless!

“The crowds of spectators that came out to watch last year were phenomenal and we are expecting the crowds to be even bigger this time, because the route is longer, it zig-zags more and this stage also falls on a weekend. How do I think the race will pan out? Despite the fatigue as the riders reach the penultimate stage, I reckon it will be a bunch sprint, every day of the week.”