THE Tour Series town centre bike race returns to Redditch on Thursday, May 10 for an incredible seventh year in a row.
The town saw the launch of the 2017 series last year and this time around it’s hosting the second round making it the longest serving area on the nationwide event.
Last year the event contributed £350,000 to the local economy due to the thousands of visitors with 21 per cent staying overnight.
Not only that but according to the statistics, seeing the best of British cyclists battle it out on the streets of Redditch inspired 54 per cent of residents to cycle more often.
The Redditch circuit is widely regarded by the pro cyclists as the toughest in the UK.
With a start and finish on Church Green West, the riders are sent anti-clockwise through the chicane at the top of Prospect Hill before hurtling down to take the left hander along Clive Road.
From there it’s a steady ride towards Hewell Road as the track begins to ramp up before the turn into Unicorn Hill and the short sharp haul back up to the start/finish.
The event takes place from the afternoon into the evening, with activities for families throughout the town, meaning a great day out for all.
Councillor Ken Pollock, the County Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for Economy and Infrastructure said: “We are so pleased The Tour Series is visiting for the seventh year.
“The event brings on average 15,000 visitors to the area and supports local businesses, resulting in a big boost for the local economy.”
As part of the race, local businesses are being given the opportunity to advertise at the event which last year brought in a combined TV audience of 2.4 million on ITV4.
There will also be a chance, via the Kingfisher Business Race, to have a go on the track with teams of four invited to relay around the circuit ahead of the pro race, with a place costing just £50 each.
To find out more, contact Lorna Jeynes on [email protected] or call 01905 843493.
To watch a video of last year’s race, click https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eLyILSKduEQ
