THE arrival of an international cycling race has sparked celebration from traders and cyclists.

The Standard reported last week that the inaugural Women’s Tour will begin its first final stage in Harwich on May 11 next year.

Elite athletes including world championship winners and Olympic gold medallists are set to be in the line up for the event.

Cycling manager Paul Miller from bike store H. S. Howlett and Son on Kingsway believes that the star-studded race will be a success.

“I certainly think it is a brilliant thing for the town and from a cycling point of view I am glad that there is another championship for the women.

“I attended the men’s Tour of Britain in Norfolk last year and it was fantastic with the trade stands they put out.

“Hopefully the town can benefit from some publicity and even television coverage.”

Organiser of the Harwich Triathlon Claire McKenna agreed that the event would be brilliant for the town.

“It is so good for something like this to come out this far. So often Harwich and coastal areas are missed out.

“Hopefully it will get more people involved in cycling and in sport like it did after the Olympics."