Local MP David Mundell has welcomed the Scottish leg of the Tour of Britain cycle race to 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 in Stage One of The Tour of Britain. Amateur cyclists also had the chance to test out the route in The Prostate Cancer Charity Tour Ride Scotland last Sunday 4th September.
Speaking ahead of the elite race Mr Mundell said: “The highly prestigious Tour of Britain cycling race, which is the UK equivalent of the Tour de’France, is a great event and it is marvellous that the very first stage is taking place right here in our area. The scenery it will pass through in Tweeddale and through Moffat on to Dumfries is stunning and will be an inspiring backdrop to the cyclists as they complete the stage.
“It is great news for the area because as well as welcoming some of the world’s top competitive cyclists to demonstrate their skills, it will have the eyes of the sporting world focused on it. Last week the area played host to a huge number of amateur cyclists taking part in the Prostate Cancer Charity Tour Ride, who as well as raising money for good causes, also brought new visitors who, now they’ve seen what is on offer locally, will want to return in the future.
“All in all the Tour of Britain stage will provide a wonderful spectacle for local people and tourists, as well as attracting visitors. This will be a benefit for local hoteliers, restaurateurs and other local businesses at the end of the summer season. The countryside in our part of the world is famed for the great cycling which is available locally, with challenging and rewarding terrain and great amenities; these two events can only enhance that reputation and lead to more visitors in the future.”