Bike boost for big race

The Tour of Britain comes to Ashfield on Wednesday, September 6, as part of Stage Four of the competition between Mansfield and Newark.

And Ashfield District Council wants to paint the district yellow as some of the world’s best cyclists will be battling it out for supremacy on the streets of the area.

Councillor Amanda Brown, portfolio holder for health and wellbeing said: “This is a really good opportunity for Ashfield to put itself on the map and show the rest of the country what we have to offer.

“We want to encourage as many people as possible to get involved and show pride in the district, whether that’s by volunteering on the day, decorating their houses or coming out to watch the race.

“The race travels through Kirkby, Sutton and the rural areas.

“This will bring with it visitors from other areas, increased footfall in the town centres and a boost to the local economy”.

Reclaimed bikes have been sprayed yellow and will be displayed on roundabouts, flower beds and parks.

The first two bikes went up outside the council’s Kirkby office this week and more will be popping up across the district over the next few weeks.

The authority has held launch events in Sutton and Hucknall, where the public could meet the Tour of Britain mascot and get involved in all sorts of cycling related activities.

Residents are encouraged to pull out all the stops and decorate their homes and schools with yellow bunting and flags.

Local businesses are also getting involved in the shop window competition, with prizes for the best Tour of Britain themed shop windows in Kirkby and Sutton.

The route through Ashfield will take in Kings Mill Reservoir, Lammas Leisure Centre, Kirkby town centre, Annesley, Selston, Underwood, Eastwood, Hucknall and then out toward Newstead.

The Tour of Britain is in the second rank of international races and lasts eight days.

Anyone interested in taking part should email [email protected].