SOME of the world’s top cyclists are set to race through the city later this year as part of Britain’s biggest professional cycle race.
Stage Four of The Tour of Britain will start in the heart of Worcester on Wednesday, September 10, before travelling through more towns and villages in the south of the county including Great Malvern, Upton-upon-Severn, Pershore, Evesham and Broadway.
The riders will then continue into Gloucestershire before finishing the day in Bristol after 182 kilometres of racing.
Exact details of the route are still being finalised but it will mark the return of the tour to Worcestershire after six years.
Peter Pawsey, executive chair at Worcestershire LEP, which led the negotiations to bring the tour to the county, said: “Worcestershire is thrilled to be hosting a stage of this year’s Tour of Britain.
“The route through the county will take in some of the most picturesque, undulating and historic parts of south Worcestershire, giving those who aren’t familiar with the county an opportunity to glimpse what we have to offer.
“What’s more it’ll offer a challenging but ultimately enjoyable ride for all the Tour participants.”
Worcestershire County Council, Worcester City Council, Malvern Hills District Council and Wychavon District Council supported Worcestershire LEP’s bid to bring the race back to the county.
Race director, Mick Bennett, added: “We look forward to returning to Worcester and to bringing The Tour of Britain back to the county of Worcestershire this September.
“Stage Four is sure to be one of the most popular of the 2014 race, joining the cities of Worcester and Bristol with a picturesque route.”
The 2014 Tour of Britain begins in Liverpool on Sunday, September 7, and finishes eight days later in central London.
Log onto www.thetour.co.uk for more information about the race.
