GUISBOROUGH has been selected to host Britain’s best international cyclists once again, this time for the first leg of the Tour Series 2021 – subject to final Covid-related permissions.

The follows on from the success of the 2019 East Cleveland Klondike and the area’s selection for 2020’s postponed Tour de Yorkshire.

The Tour Series will visit on Sunday, August 8 and will involve the UK’s leading cyclists and teams racing through the streets of Guisborough on a fast and technical 1.34km route.

Streets involved are Westgate, Market Place, Church Street, Walkers Row, Northgate, Bolckow Street, Priory Close, Reid Terrace, and Westgate Road

As well the cycle race, sporting and community activities will take place on Westgate from midday.

Leader of Redcar and Cleveland Council, Cllr Mary Lanigan, said: “We are so excited – and privileged – to be welcoming Britain’s cycling elite back to our borough. Lockdown saw many people in the area take up the sport as their one form of exercise a day, and now they have the very unique opportunity to watch the professionals take on their own streets. It will be such a spectacle for everyone who comes along.”

It is hoped the televised event will also provide a boost for the local economy.

Councillor Louise Westbury, who has responsibility for events and culture, said: “After the disappointing postponement of a range of sporting events, we are incredibly pleased that the Tour Series can go ahead, even if it means acting within any possible restrictions extending beyond July 19. It will be an unforgettable day, which has been estimated to bring a possible £400,000 to Guisborough and the surrounding area, which is just fantastic.”

Three brand new northern venues were announced for 2021, with the Tour opening in Guisborough before subsequent rounds in Sunderland and Castle Douglas. It is expected to attract large crowds.

MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, Simon Clarke said: “This event should be a great opportunity to showcase Guisborough – hopefully the weather will be kind and spectators and participants will be able to enjoy the beauty of our area to the full. I know our fantastic retail and hospitality businesses will be delighted to welcome new visitors to the town."

Hugh Roberts, chief executive of organisers, SweetSpot, added: “We are delighted, along with British Cycling, to be able to announce the return of the Tour Series and would like to both welcome Guisborough and thank Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council for their tremendous support. We are sure that their commitment will be rewarded with a fantastic Tour Series event.”

Highlights of all three rounds will be shown on ITV4 and Eurosport.