10,000 estimated to line roads around Rutland, as elite UK cycle event returns
Over 170 top riders will take part in the 18th annual Rutland-Melton International CiCLE Classic
More than 10,000 people are estimated to line the route of the 18th Rutland-Melton International CiCLE Classic today.
The event, which is the only one-day international cycle race for elite men in Britain, will feature over 170 cyclists competing in teams from seven different countries.
The course takes riders over farm tracks and rough roads, which wouldn't normally be encountered in most major competitions.
Spectators will come from all over the world to watch the race - which first began in 2005.
Oakham High Street, Market Street and Market Place will be closed between 8:30am and 1:30pm today as the event gets underway.
"The only event seen as being of higher standard in this country, is the Tour of Britain", said organiser and race director Colin Clews.
"The event is not just a sporting one. We try to recreate the party atmosphere that accompanies a lot of the major races in Europe and we believe that within Great Britain we have achieved this - far better than any other race in the country."
He added: "People come from Europe to watch the race and follow it from as far afield as Australia and the US.
"Although there are very rough estimates, we reckon to have at the roadside on Sunday, in excess of 10,000 people at various points around the course.
"Those people need drinks, food and accommodation in many cases. These are all things that're taken up in the area. The race is a valuable asset to the area."
Riders will set off from Oakham around 11am on Sunday 28th April, and are expected to finish around 15:45pm in Melton Mowbray.
Find out more information about the 2024 CiCLE Classic, and where to find the best viewing spots, via the CiCLE Classic website.