Elite Circuit cycling returns

As the region continues to gear up for the Tour de France, Beverley will again be hosting some of the country’s top riders, in July, as they take part in the hugely popular Elite Men’s Circuit Race.

The event, organised by East Yorkshire Events and the Hull Thursday Road Club, will get underway from 6pm on Friday 18 July, with the Elite Series Circuit Race, which will be held in the town centre for the ninth year running.

Andy Cawley, race organiser, said: “This is a great example of voluntary groups, East Riding of Yorkshire Council, Beverley Town Council, East Yorkshire Events, Humberside Police and numerous local sponsors working together to deliver a top-class sporting spectacle.”

There will also be two support events: the Keith Jordan Memorial support race for local riders, and for the first time there will be a ladies race, to cater for the increased demand for women’s cycling events.

The weekend attracts thousands of spectators and is estimated to bring more than £500,000 to the local economy. The main event will be covered by Sky Sports.

Interest in this year’s event is anticipated to be high and will come very soon after the Grand Depart of the 2014 Tour De France, which will start in Leeds on 5 July.

Councillor Jane Evison, cabinet portfolio holder for economy, investment and inequalities, said: “Yorkshire has a real passion for cycling and, coming so soon after the Grand Depart, we are expecting a great turnout in Beverley.

“We are extremely pleased that the town will again host this popular race, which shows this authority’s commitment to hosting top-class, national events within East Yorkshire."

More details of road closures, changes to bus services and news from the event will be publicised nearer the time.