World's cycling elite to descend on the South West
In less than seven months time the world's cycling elite will descend on Bristol and Gloucestershire for the Tour of Britain. Bristol is the only city which is effectively holding two stages of the tour, with a time trial in the morning followed by a circuit race in the afternoon.
Mayor George Ferguson believes the event will bring around £3.5 million to the local economy, but perhaps more importantly, as one of the largest free-to-watch sporting events in the country, it will inspire the next generation.
Thousands of fans are expected to line the streets as some of Britain's most successful cyclists, battle through two key stages in the week long race. It's hoped Sir Bradley Wiggins and Mark Cavendish will join after they return from the Olympic games in Brazil.
Arguably one of the most gruelling sports, riders will push themselves for up to six hours every day, as they try to take a few seconds from their rivals. While sprinters will have their sights firmly set on stage wins, general classification riders will be aiming for the fastest overall time.
A decisive stage will be the Bristol time trial, which sets off on 10th September and sees riders take on 15km section of road without the protection of their teammates. They'll start and finish on the Downs as well as riding across Clifton Suspension Bridge. Whoever wins here, will be favourite to take the overall title.