The Tour of Britain has brought Dumfriesshire and what it has to offer to the attention of people right across the UK through media coverage of the cycle race, according to local MP David Mundell.
Mr Mundell said: "Well done to everyone involved. The Tour passing through this area has proved a great opportunity to promote Dumfries & Galloway, and in particular what it offers in terms of scenery and outdoor pursuits like cycling. I am sure it will bring thousands of extra visitors to our region and we need to make sure we have the facilities to meet their needs, like good quality road surfaces.
“At the finishing line on the Whitesands, I met Nigel Mansel ( the former world champion motor racing driver who now runs one of the cycling teams) who told me how impressed he was with the local area and which he hadn't been aware of until he came with the Tour. TV coverage means millions have been able to find out the same about Dumfriesshire from the comfort of their homes, so let's make the most of it and continue to build the area's reputation for the great outdoors. To see the Tour back next year, will be great news.
“After the sensational summer of sport, it was also fantastic to see superstars such as Wiggo (Bradley Wiggins) and Cav (Mark Cavendish) on our local roads and I hope the youngsters watching took inspiration from them and that we might see some potential Tour de France and Olympians emerge locally."