Hartlepool prepares to host Tour of Britain women race - see what's in store and road closure details
Excitement is building as Hartlepool gets ready to host a stage of the prestigious Tour of Britain women’s cycle race for the first time.
The second day of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women race starts from Maritime Avenue at 10.45am on Friday, June 6.
It will be a chance for visitors to see the world’s top female cyclists competing, such as Lizzie Deignan, reigning European champion Lorena Wiebes and double Olympic gold medallist Kristen Faulkner.
Visitors are due to line the route as the race makes its way through Seaton Carew and Billingham towards the finish at Saltburn.
There will be lots going on for people to enjoy from an event village in the car park of the National Museum of the Royal Navy Hartlepool which will be open from 9am.
It will feature drop-in arts activities, interactive installations, live music and performances from 9.15am to 11.30am.
A team presentation with the riders will take place on board HMS Trincomalee.
Hartlepool Borough Council is working closely with local community interest company BloomInArt on the family-friendly programme.
Manilla Cycling, a locally-based club, will also be providing cycling-focused activities on Maritime Avenue.
Hartlepool Borough Council leader Cllr Brenda Harrison said: “We hope people will turn out in force to cheer on the riders as they depart the town and head off across the Tees Valley.”
Where possible, people are urged to use public transport to travel to the event.
Parking restrictions will be in place on Maritime Avenue and Victoria Terrace from 5am on Friday.
A rolling temporary road block will also be in place along the route.
For details visit www.britishcycling.org.uk