Big crowds packed Saltburn and Redcar earlier today (Wednesday) for the Lloyds Bank Tour of Britain - the country's most prestigious cycle race.
Enthusiasts also lined the route in Easington, Loftus, Brotton, Skelton, Lingdale and Marske as the elite riders raced over from Darlington.
There was street entertainment and music for the bumper crowds of people who came from across the country to enjoy the race and see Stephen Williams cross the line in first place and receive his certificate from Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland, Cllr Neil Bendelow.
Cllr Carrie Richardson, Cabinet Member for Climate and Culture and Deputy Leader of the Council said:
“What a wonderful day! It was our chance to welcome some of the world’s elite athletes for our country’s biggest race with thousands of people attending and it went fantastically well. It’s great that people from right across the country had the chance to see our beautiful scenery and towns not only Redcar and Cleveland but also Darlington and right across the Tees Valley.
“We are building a reputation as a key cycling venue and I’d like to congratulate everyone who helped make this happen.”