Love Felixstowe festival kicks off Tour of Britain buildup in Suffolk
Six days of events are planned in the Suffolk town ahead of the arrival of Stage Five of the race
Six days worth of buildup to the Tour of Britain have begun in Suffolk, with the Love Felixstowe festival kicking off earlier today.
The event has been put together as a celebration of the seaside town ahead of the arrival of Stage Five of the race on Thursday.
The 192km route will start and finish in Felixstowe, with riders also heading through Needham Market, Stowmarket, Framlingham, Leiston, and Woodbridge.
Free events including live music and a BBQ have been taking place today along with town's seafront.
There are set to be film screenings and activities across the weekend, with a plane display at around 4:30pm on Sunday.
Lego brick building workshops are to be held at Felixstowe Leisure Centre, with a pétanque (a form of bowls) competition at the new activity park near Sea Road.
A mobile skatepark arrives in the town on Monday, with the Ipswich Town Foundation also giving people the chance to test their football skills.
A full programme of events can be found here.
Caroline Topping, Leader of East Suffolk Council, said: “We’re excited for the arrival of the Tour of Britain next Thursday and proud that Felixstowe has been chosen as the start and finish venue for Stage Five of the race.
“The Love Felixstowe festival is a chance for everyone to join in the celebrations ahead of the big day and I would like to thank everybody involved who has enabled this to happen.”
Seamus Bennett, an East Suffolk Councillor as well as Mayor of Felixstowe, said: “There’s so much for people to do during the Love Felixstowe festival in the days leading up to the Tour of Britain.
“The programme is packed with activities and entertainment – and that’s a reflection of just how much the town has to offer.”
Felixstowe BID's Kate Cain added: “With six days of events across the town planned, including the welcome return of Art on The Prom and, of course, the Tour of Britain stage start and finish, it’s looking like a fantastic ’season finale’ here in Felixstowe.
“We’ve been attracting attention in the news lately, and this special festival will only add to our recognition, not as just a great seaside resort, but a thriving town with lots to offer.”