Local MP David Mundell has welcomed news that the Scottish leg of the Tour of Britain cycle race will be in his Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale constituency. Almost 100 of the world's top cyclists will ride the 170 kilometres from Peebles to Dumfries via the Tweed valley, Innerleithen, Tweedsmuir and Moffat on Sunday 11th September in Stage One of The Tour of Britain. Amateur cyclists will also have the chance to test out the route in The Prostate Cancer Charity Tour Ride Scotland on Sunday 4th September. Over 1,000 cyclists are expected to take up the opportunity to sample the route and raise money to help combat prostate cancer.
Speaking after the announcement Mr Mundell said:
“It is marvellous news that this highly prestigious cycling race is coming to our area. The scenery it will pass through in Tweeddale and Dumfriesshire is stunning and it will certainly provide a formidable challenge to those taking part. As well as welcoming some of the world’s most elite cyclists to demonstrate their skills, the area will also play host to a huge number of amateur cyclists taking part in the Prostate Cancer Charity Tour Ride, so it is doubly good news.
"The Tour of Britain stage will provide a wonderful spectacle for local people and tourists, as well as attracting lots of visitors. I hope it will be a boon for local hoteliers, restaurateurs and other local businesses at the end of the summer season. Many of those taking part in the races will have visited before as our area already has a national reputation for the excellent cycling which is to be had here. These two events can only enhance that reputation and lead to more visitors in the future.”