Visitors from near and far enjoyed a thrilling spectacle in Skegness, as the town hosted the Tour of Britain cyclists.
Belgian Tim Merlier (Fix All Quick-Step) pulled off an impressive sprint victory after a keenly contested day in Lincolnshire for stage two of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Men.
The finish line in Skegness. It was an impressive victory Tim Merlier (Fix All Quick-Step). Photo: ELDC
The 111 mile route route began in Boston this morning (Thursday, September 3) and took a route through Horncastle, The Wolds, Louth, Mablethorpe and Spilsby before ending on the sea front at Skegness.
Colin Harrison. Photo LDRS
Colin Harrison, 76, from Nottingham, who had come to Skegness for a holiday, said: “It’s quite a spectacle. It’s great for Skegness and will help to put it on the map.
“It’s quite a big event and many of the cyclists have competed in the Tour de France.”
Moksha Darnton. Photo LDRS
Moksha Darnton, 69, had come all the way from Christchurch near Bournemouth to watch the race in Skegness.
She said: “It’s a great event. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m a keen cyclist myself so it was lovely to be at this event.”
Jon Molson. Photo LDRS
Jon Molson, 71, from Skegness, was impressed with the atmosphere of the race.
He said: “It’s fantastic. My favourite part of the event has been the sprint finish.
“When you watch it on TV, it’s not the same as when you see it live. It’s great for Skegness.”
East Lindsey District Council leader Craig Leyland. Photo LDRS
Leader of East Lindsey District Council, Craig Leyland (Conservative – Woodhall Spa), said: “I think it’s been a fantastic day for East Lindsey.
“It’s been a fantastic couple of days for Lincolnshire and this is about legacy, this is about encouraging people to cycle, it’s about wellbeing.
“It’s about putting us on the tourist map for cycling. We are a perfect area for cycling and this is going to help with promotion and publicity.”
Some of the cyclists at the finish line in Skegness. Photo LDRS
The victorious Merlier, meanwhile, said: “I’m a bit tired but really happy to win and to take my 10th win of the season over here.
“I was a bit boxed in and some other riders passed me before the corner, but there was still 350m to go and then I think some guys didn’t really accelerate after the corner and then I tried to surprise the others, and I think it worked out. I think they were a bit surprised that I went so early but If it’s a sprint, I have confidence.”