Elite cyclists light up sunshine tour
THE country’s premier road cycling event passed through Rochdale on Saturday - and proved a hit with residents.
With sunny skies and a full day of events organised by the council, the Tour of Britain’s appearance was proudly welcomed through the town by hundreds of spectators.
Some of the best cyclists in the world whizzed along The Esplanade, past the town hall before heading for the long scenic climb up Edenfield Road - all of which was broadcast live on ITV4 to 190 countries worldwide.
At Rochdale Town Hall there was entertainment, food, music and cycling related activities, including two packed performances of Bicycle Boy – a bicyclepowered musical show ●●Riding through Rochdale town centre are, from left, Mathieu van der Poel, Mark Cavendish one of many British riders and one of the other competitors with songs, laughs and lots of interaction.
Over 500 spectators gathered in a viewing zone at Jubilee Park in Norden, with hundreds more lining the route from Newgate in the town centre and along The Esplanade by the town hall in the sunshine.
Councillor Allen Brett, leader of Rochdale Borough Council, said: “The event was wonderful, we saw huge crowds at the town hall, in Norden and across the borough.
“The community really got behind The Tour of Britain and we certainly gave the riders a warm welcome.
“With fans watching on television worldwide the area looked stunning in the sunshine and it was great to see so many residents out enjoying the occasion.
“I really hope the day has encouraged more to get out on their bikes and explore the fantastic countryside right on our doorstep.”
Free basic bike repairs were provided by expert technician Chris Docker, with 17 bikes being brought along and then made roadworthy again and Lisa Clayton, from Link4Life, hosted two outdoor spin classes on The Esplanade, putting willing visitors through their paces.
Mathieu van der Poel won the OVO Energy Tour of Britain as he out-sprinted his Dutch compatriot Cees Bol which finished in Manchester city centre.
Britain’s Jacob Scott won the King of the Mountains jersey and Ben Swift was named as being best British rider as his Team Ineos squad took the overall team award.