Route for Women's Tour final stage in Suffolk revealed
The winner will be crowned in Suffolk in October.
The routes for the stages of the Women's Tour, which finishes in Suffolk, have been revealed.
The sixth and final stage of the tour in October is 155km from Haverhill to Felixstowe.
Riders will take a scenic route through the country, past Melford Hall stately home and through Sudbury, before passing along the runway at Wattisham Flying Station.
The route also includes Stowmarket, Wickham Market and Woodbridge, with the finish line adjacent to the beach in Felixstowe.
Mick Bennett, Women's Tour race director, said: "We are all set for what promises to be another memorable edition of the Women's Tour!
"From our first-ever individual time trial in Warwickshire, an innovative stage in Walsall, potential for crosswinds en route to the finishes in Southend and Clacton, plus the bonus seconds that line the route from Oxfordshire to Suffolk, there are plenty of opportunities for the race to come alive!"
This is the sixth time, in the events seven-year history, that Suffolk has hosted the race, with it becoming a staple part of the county's calendar.
In its five previous visits to Suffolk, the Women's Tour is estimated to have attracted 300,000 spectators to the roadside, covered more than 560 kilometres of racing and created a net economic impact for the county of in excess of £5.3 million.
The race is screened worldwide, with highlights shown in the UK, Netherlands and pan-Asia Pacific and in excess of 1.3 million watching the ITV4 highlights programme.
The Women's Tour says cycling is the UK's fastest growing sport and following the 2019 stage in Suffolk 59% of spectators said they had been inspired to cycle more often.
Cllr Derek Davis, Babergh District Council’s cabinet member for communities, commented on the announcement: “It’s fantastic news that our district will play a part in the final of a renowned national sporting event – showcasing the history and beauty of Babergh to everyone following the race. I am also delighted that Wattisham Flying Station features in this year’s route – reflecting the importance of our county’s military community.
“Like many, I can’t wait to watch on the day, and I’d encourage all our communities to come out in force and cheer on some of the world’s top cyclists.”
Cllr Harry Richardson, Mid Suffolk District Council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing said: “We had a fantastic turnout when Stowmarket was selected to host the stage finish in 2019 and I hope we’ll see this again when we have the honour of welcoming back riders in October.
“I know that many Mid Suffolk residents will not only want to show their support for the race but will also be inspired to take up cycling themselves.
"This is a great way to improve health and wellbeing and those looking to start riding, or get back in the saddle, can find advice on the Keep Moving Suffolk website.”
What are the stages?
" Stage one Bicester to Banbury Monday 4 October
" Stage two Walsall Tuesday 5 October
" Stage three Atherstone individual time trial Wednesday 6 October
" Stage four Shoeburyness to Southend Thursday 7 October
" Stage five Colchester to Clacton Friday 8 October
" Stage six Haverhill to Felixstowe Saturday 9 October