SOME of the world's best cyclists will pass by the area later this year.

It has been announced today, Friday (July 21) that Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire will host a section of the Tour of Britain cycling race later this year following last year’s cancellation. 

The two counties will host the seventh and penultimate stage of the race on Saturday, September 9 starting in Tewkesbury and finishing near Gloucester Docks. 

This will be the first time a full stage has been held in the county.

This stage was originally due to feature in last year’s event, but was cancelled following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

More than 100 of the world’s best riders are expected to compete.

Gloucestershire has seen segments of the race before, such as in 2017, 2016 and 2014, but 2022 will give people the opportunity to see it across the region for a whole day.

What's the Tour of Britain route for Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire? 

The full route details and timetable have not yet been released.

However last year's route was due to pass through the Cotswolds and then on to Cirencester, Minchinhampton and Tetbury.

The route then was due to go into South Gloucestershire, passing close to Chipping Sodbury and Yate before heading back north through the Stroud district.

It then was supposed to go through Wotton and Dursley before passing close to Stonehouse and Stroud.

Stroud News and Journal: Tour of Britain flashes through Stroud in 2016 Tour of Britain flashes through Stroud in 2016

"A beautiful part of Britain" says organiser

Mick Bennett, Tour of Britain race director, said: “We know how much people in Gloucestershire were looking forward to our planned stage in 2022.

"So, a little later than expected, we’re excited to be heading to this beautiful part of Britain! 

“This stage is really going to give us an indication as to who will be crowned our 2023 champion, which further adds to the anticipation. 

“Of course, none of this would be happening without the support from Gloucestershire County Council and South Gloucestershire Council, both of whom have shown an unwavering commitment to hosting the event, dating back nearly two years!”

Cllr Mark Hawthorne, leader of Gloucestershire County Council, said: “I am delighted that we that we are able to host stage seven of the 2023 Tour of Britain, following on from the success of the Women’s Tour coming to the county in 2022.

"Events like the Tour of Britain are key to helping our economy thrive and showcase, to a significant international audience, all that Gloucestershire has to offer.

"Bringing world-class cyclists to our doorstep also has the potential to inspire more people to ride their bikes.”

In September of last year, it was revealed that the Tour of Britain's cancelled leg cost Gloucestershire County Council £175,000.