Top class cycling ‘tourists’ to visit
ASUMMER of sport will continue as cycling’s Tour of Britain – with bike superstar Mark Cavendish – comes to Macclesfield.
The fifth stage of the race will start at Alderley Park on Thursday, September 9, and then follow a 95-mile route through Cheshire East, skirting the Peak District and ending in Warrington.
It is anticipated the event will draw large crowds of fans – particularly the mountain climbing and sprint sections – but spectators are being asked to enjoy it safely.
Cheshire East Council is urging people to find quieter spots and to take a lateral flow Covid test to help prevent the spread of the virus.
Doctor Matt Tyrer, director of public health, said: “We of course want people to enjoy the return of Tour of Britain and understand that many will want to head to the sprint and hill climb sections of the route.
“But for those who wish to watch the spectacle without the worry of large crowds, and to be able to keep their distance from others more easily, there are many places along the route to be able to do just that.
“Positive Covid cases have increased slightly in the borough and we all need to continue to remain cautious for the foreseeable future.
“Before people do venture out, I strongly advise them to take a lateral flow test – using either the free home test kits, or by visiting a symptom-free testing centre.”
It is the first time the Tour of Britain has come through Cheshire East since 2016.
Among the big names confirmed to be taking part this year are Mark Cavendish, who jointly holds the record for most Tour de France stage wins – and Belgian Tokyo 2020 Olympic medallist Wout van
Aert. Peter Skates, the council’s director of growth and enterprise, said: “Both will be a big draw for the crowds. But while most of the government’s Covid restrictions have now been lifted, we must remain cautious.”
Rolling road closures will be in place during the race and will be managed by the tour organisers.
A map of the route for stage five and timetable for when riders re expected to pass through each area can be found on the Tour of Britain website.