An estimated 500,000 spectators turned out in Stockport for the first stage of the Tour of Britain on Sunday 3 September.

Visitors came from across the country, brining the number of spectators in the Stockport area to half a million, exceeding the population of the borough almost twofold.

The Netherlands' Olav Kooji from team Jumbo-Visma picked up the leader's jersey for the opening stage.

See a clip below as the cyclists came from Romiley to Werneth Low.

Nor was the excitement confined to the race itself; free bike check-ups and other cycling activities took place at Torkington Park, whilst a 'Beat the Sprint' cycling challenge honoured the sprint that passed directly in front of Hazel Grove Life Leisure Centre, with spin bikes set up to see how Stockport locals fared over 800 metres.

Councillor Frankie Singleton, cabinet member for communities, culture & sport, said: "It was fantastic to see spectators lining the streets, and the community getting behind the peloton as it battled and raced through the borough. It was a true sporting spectacle for all".

Councillor Grace Baynham, cabinet member for parks, highways & transport services, added: "This extraordinary Town of Culture event went beyond the race, it inspired a sense of community, and celebration and hopefully inspired people to get out and enjoy time on their bikes along the new and improved active travel network in our beautiful borough."

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