Northampton and Kettering to host the finale of 2016 Women's Tour cycling race

The last stage of the five-day international women’s cycling event will take place in the county on Sunday, June 19 and attract some of the world’s best female riders.

Last year’s race saw 67,500 people line the streets to cheer on the cyclists and saw an estimated £1 million boost to the local economy.

The event also inspired 65% of spectators to cycle more often, according to an independent report.

Deputy leader of Northamptonshire County Council, Councillor Heather Smith said: “Northampton and Kettering have both hosted the finish of the race before, Northampton in its first year in 2014 and Kettering last year, so we’re very much looking forward to the prospect of working with them again.

“I would urge people across the county to come along and support the riders on what is sure to be a fantastic day – and hopefully the crowds will be inspired to get cycling too.”

Northampton Borough Council leader Councillor Mary Markham, said: “It is a fantastic opportunity to not only encourage more women and girls into sport but also raise the profile of Northampton and encourage visitors to the town.”

Northamptonshire County Council will now work with event organisers SweetSpot to finalise the details for the route through the county.

Mick Bennett, race director of the Aviva Women’s Tour, said: “Having hosted the first ever stage of the Aviva Women’s Tour in 2014, it is fitting that Northamptonshire will now have the chance to host the final stage of this year’s race.

“The final day will be an undulating stage taking in some new climbs areas of Northamptonshire that we’ve haven’t visited with the previous two editions.”

Northamptonshire rider Hannah Barnes, who will compete as part of Canyon SRAM Racing team, said: “I travel all over the world racing, so to be able to race along roads I train on is a privilege. All my friends and family can come and watch, which is a real treat.”

Northamptonshire County Council has also agreed with SweetSpot that a stage of the Aviva Women’s Tour will be held in the county next year.

As part of the agreement, SweetSpot will also hold a mass-participation cycle event in the county this year and next year to encourage people, in particular women and families, to become more active and get cycling.

For more information about the Aviva Women’s Tour Northamptonshire stage and about cycling in the county, visit www.northamptonshire.gov.uk/womenstour.