Sunderland gears up to welcome The Tour Series tomorrow

Sunderland is gearing up to host some of cycling's best when the Tour Series heads to the city tomorrow, Tuesday 10 May, for a second year running.

Britain's leading men's and women's teams will battle it out for glory around the roads of Mowbray Park tomorrow afternoon as part of the UK's most prestigious televised domestic cycling series.

Last year's race, which attracted a crowd of 5,000 people, saw eventual women's series champions CAMS - Basso and men's runners-up Canyon dhb SunGod take the victories in the unique team-based format. The event generated over £70,000 for the local economy.

Visitors can enjoy the build up in the city centre's Mowbray Park from 3pm where they can enjoy a range of free fun outdoor games and activities with Active Sunderland, live music, incredible bicycle stunt displays from 3SIXTY and much more.

A selection of food and drink will also be available to enjoy before the main event begins at 5.30pm with the women's race, followed by the men's race at 7.30pm on the race circuit around the perimeter of Mowbray Park.

Councillor Graeme Miller, Leader of Sunderland City Council, said: "We're delighted to be welcoming the Tour Series back to Sunderland for a second year running. It was such a fantastic sight to see some of the country's top cyclists racing through the streets around the city centre last summer and I know lots of people will be delighted to see its return. 

"It also promises to be a brilliant afternoon out for families with something for everyone. From battling it out with friends and family in our static cycling challenge, to incredible bicycle stunt displays and fun outdoor games, there's lots free activity for the whole family.

"This is one of a number of major sporting events to look forward to in our city this year. We've also got the Super Series Grand Final Triathlon coming to Sunderland for the first time in August and the Tour of Britain in September.

"As well as being the perfect opportunity to showcase our city to a wider audience, we hope that all these events will inspire more people to take up cycling as part of our swim, bike, run programme over the next few years and enjoy all the mental and physical health benefits that being physically active brings with it." 

Road closures will be in place on:

• Burdon Road -  7am to 10:30pm
• Park Road and Toward Road - 2pm to 10:30pm
• Borough Road - 3pm to 9:45pm

Anyone travelling to the event by car, can find details of city centre car parks here: https://www.sunderland.gov.uk/article/13615/City-centre-parking-map. Please note, the civic centre car park is now closed.

For more information visit: British Cycling Tour Series - MySunderland