Thousands of spectators line the streets as the Tour of Britain kicks off in Greater Manchester
manchestereveningnews.co.ukThousands of spectators lined the streets of Greater Manchester as the Tour of Britain got underway today. British cycling's premier road cycling event set off from Altrincham as Trafford hosted this year's Grand Départ.
A star-studded peloton raced over a 163km route through Trafford, Stockport, Oldham, Rochdale, Bury and Salford before a sprint finish on Deansgate.
The stage was held in boiling 25C heat, which prompted a joke from race favourite and 2021 champ Wout Van Eart. Interviewed before the start, the Belgian racer said it was 'great to be back' in 'typical British weather'. Try MEN Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features Dozens of cyclists from local clubs Tatton Velo and Seamonds CC were given the honour of riding out at the start of the stage outside Altrincham Market.
Then it was over to the Mayor of Trafford, Coun Dolores O'Sullivan, to send the riders on their way. Speaking shortly before the off she said: "It's absolutely buzzing.
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