On 28 July Newark Town Centre will once again hear the sounds of wheels on the tarmac as the elite of British cycling slug it out to determine who will be crowned champion.
Following on from the hugely popular event last year, once again the finale of the British Cycling National Circuit Series will use the historic Royal Market as the backdrop for the final races of the season.
Last year we saw a massive influx of visitors to the town, with the businesses who supported the event showing increased footfall through the evening.
As should be expected with an event of this type, there will be some disruption to transport in the town during the event itself.
Buses are expected to run as normal up to 3:00 pm and the Market will be open as normal up to 2.00 pm. It is worth checking with your local bus operator to see which routes will be affected, in particular those using the Bus Station, Lombard Street and Castle Gate.
The event will be opened officially at 4:00 pm, with the final race taking place at 8:30pm which will see the Men’s National Circuit Series champion crowned. There will be plenty of things to see and do for all the family.
‘This is a superb event, very colourful and exciting.
“It really brings the Royal Market Place to life with so many spectators and competitors. As with last year, it’s a great honour for Newark to be hosting the finale of this series,’ states Councillor Susan Crosby, portfolio holder for Health, Wellbeing and Leisure, ‘Newark is a great place for cyclists.
“We have the four Brompton Bike hubs where anyone can hire a bike to get around the town, the new cycling facilities at the YMCA coming soon and of course, we will be welcoming the Tour of Britain in September.’
‘It’s really important for us that cyclists of all levels can enjoy our District. There are cycle paths and trails for commuters and recreational cyclists alike. We hope by welcoming the Town Centre races to Newark that we inspire more people to dust off their bikes and get pedalling this summer,’ she added.
Chris Lawrence from British Cycling is the Event Director and organiser of this year’s event said:
‘We really want to build on the great success of last year, it really felt like everyone got behind us on the day.
“We want local businesses to get involved this year, and we really appreciate their help and tolerance as we know that organising a national event like this can be disruptive.
“Feedback from last year’s event was overwhelmingly positive which is why we are so happy to be back again this year.’
Councillor Paul Peacock, Newark and Sherwood District Council Leader said:
‘I am excited to see so many elite level events happening in our District this year.
“I really hope it inspires our communities to take to two wheels and discover the hidden gems around the District.
“I’d encourage anyone to sign up for the Community ride which kicks things off. What a great way to start the school summer holidays!’
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