People are being urged to line the roadsides as the Tour of Britain cycle race returns to the county for the first time in three years.

https://infogr.am/tour_of_britain_norwich_route

Starting with an event at Fakenham Racecourse, followed by a ride through Fakenham town centre before the race officially starts at Guist, the penultimate stage of the nationwide tour will finish in Ipswich – some 141 miles away.

Along the way, the cyclists, including former Tour de France winner Bradley Wiggins and Manxman Mark Cavendish, will pedal through Reepham, Aylsham, Norwich, Wymondham, Attleborough and Thetford as well as many villages in between.

There will be a 'King of the Mountain' climb near Hevingham.

Paul Smyth, chairman of Norfolk County Council's communities committee, said: 'The Tour of Britain is the UK's biggest free to watch live sporting event and it is great that the race is returning to Norfolk. The route crosses much of the county so there are plenty of opportunities for people to see top-class athletes at work.

'Whilst we expect the race to draw huge crowds in Norwich, ours is the only East of England race stage and many communities along the course have planned events which should attract local support.

'This international event will boost Norfolk's profile and economy, and will hopefully encourage more people to experience the health and fitness benefits of cycling too. So let's give the riders a welcome to Norfolk they will remember.'

Active Norfolk, Norfolk County Council and Adnams are working together to bring the Tour of Britain back to the region on Saturday, September 12.

The return of the race to the county is also made possible by the support of Breckland Council, Broadland District Council, North Norfolk District Council, Norwich City Council and South Norfolk Council.

For your ultimate guide to the Tour of Britain in Norfolk and Suffolk, complete with timings, don't miss Saturday's paper.