COLCHESTER has “done itself proud” after the world’s best cyclists whizzed through the streets of the newly crowned city in an “exciting” display of elite sport.
The Women’s Tour wowed wide-eyed spectators throughout Colchester and surrounding areas yesterday morning as just shy of 100 riders went wheel-to-wheel.
The majority of residents and representatives who managed to catch a quick glimpse of the speeding bikers as they zoomed by were left impressed by thrilling event.
Adam Fox, deputy leader of Colchester Council, said: “Colchester has done itself proud in hosting the Grand Depart for this international sporting event.
“Residents and visitors to the region could enjoy even more opportunities to get out and cheer on the riders who competed through our city and villages.
“The Women’s Tour is such an exciting way to showcase our beautiful borough on the world’s stage, as well as the excellent cycling facilities at Colchester Sports Park.
“Keeping active is so vital to our physical and mental wellbeing - today’s event was a great opportunity to gain inspiration from the world’s most elite sports women.”
Dedicated cycling fan Tracey Tyrell, from Harwich, travelled to the start line in Colchester with her excited children to witness the cyclists launch into race-mode.
She said: “We had a wonderful time - it was a little chilly but you can't help the weather The kids really enjoyed watching all the cyclists.”
Essex county councillor and Colchester resident Simon Crow also headed out to see the cyclists zoom through the city centre.
He said: “It is a huge honour for Colchester to have been chosen to host the grand depart of the world’s biggest all-female cycle race.
“The route took them through the heart of our historic town centre, right on the back of the weekend’s amazing jubilee celebrations.
“It was quite exciting to stand on the High Street and witness it.
“Hopefully our new city status will encourage more organisers of similar prestigious events to look to Colchester to host them.”
The rolling road closures which were put in place to keep both the cyclists and the spectators safe, however, left some people unhappy.
Karin Ashmore said: “It is a nuisance – my road is going to be closed just as a I finish work.”
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