PERSHORE’S tourism industry will be given a boost when the world’s top cyclists hit the town’s streets for the Tour of Britain next Sunday, a former town mayor has claimed.
The eighth and final stage of the international race will begin in Worcester and see cyclists pass through Pershore as part of the 180km course which climaxes in Cardiff.
Speaking to the Observer, Coun Tony Rowley believes the race will not only boost the town’s tourism industry, but will inspire residents to take up cycling.
Hundreds of people are expected once again to line the town’s streets as they did back in 2014 to catch a glimpse of the top cyclists including Mark Cavendish and Geraint Thomas.
And with extensive TV coverage of the race, images of Pershore will beamed around the world from Europe to Africa to Central and South America.
ITV will also be broadcasting every minute of the race live on ITV 4.
The race is expected to start at about 11am and the cyclists will pass through Drakes Broughton on the B4084 to reach Pershore.
They will then head down the High Street, onto Broad Street and up along Defford Road where they will then head up to Upton-upon-Severn and cross the Malvern Hills at British Camp.
Ahead of the event, Coun Rowley delivered a rallying call to local residents to turn up and witness a major event in the international cycling calendar
“This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase Pershore on not only the national but the international cycling stage,” he said.
“Unlike the Tour of Britain in 2014 this year’s event will take place on a Sunday and we hope residents and visitors to the town, the surrounding villages and throughout the Vale will come to Pershore and line the streets as the entourage enters.
“This unique event centred upon Worcestershire will attract tourists and cycling enthusiasts from all parts of Britain.
“In addition to the benefits of tourism for Pershore and the surrounding area there will be a legacy from the increase in interest in cycling.
“It is proven that such events inspire many both young and old to take up cycling with the resultant improvement to the health and well-being of many local people. This part of Wychavon’s drive to help people to be healthy, happy and active.”
