Borderers are being asked to support the UK’s biggest free to spectate event this September by volunteering as ‘Race Makers’.
A number of volunteering opportunities are available on Sunday 8th September, including assisting at the Stage Two start and finish in Kelso and also along the route at sprint and SKODA King of the Mountains locations.
The call comes from Scottish Borders Council and the OVO Energy Tour of Britain organisers.
Race Director Mick Bennett said: “Without our wonderful Race Makers we simply would not be able to deliver the OVO Energy Tour of Britain on its current scale. Each year they help us to deliver a memorable event and ensure that our spectators leave with a smile.”
Councillor Mark Rowley, Scottish Borders Council’s Executive Member for Business and Economic Development, added: “This is a great opportunity to become a Race Maker for the day and not only get up close to the action but help to ensure a safe and successful event for both the riders and all the spectators.
“It would be great to have local people in these roles as their local knowledge will be invaluable, especially in directing spectators and visitors in Kelso and elsewhere on the route to not only the best locations but also to the many visitor attractions, shops, cafes and restaurants in the area.”
Anyone interested in volunteering should visitwww.tourofbritain.co.uk/community/volunteer for more information and an online registration form. No training is required and all volunteers will get a briefing on the day and also receive a free gift.
The Scottish Borders stage will start in Kelso town centre, travel along the A698 to Coldstream before passing through Lennel en-route to Paxton. From there it will take the riders west, taking in Chirnside and Preston. Cutting across from Ellemford to Longformacus, the race will then drop down into Duns and pass through Gavinton and Westruther.
Gordon, Smailholm and then Clintmains all feature on the route before the climb to Scott’s View and descent to the foot of Leaderfoot viaduct. After passing through Gattonside, the riders will turn in to Melrose and climb Dingleton Hill before a fast run through Maxton to the finish line back in Kelso.
ITV4 will once again screen live free-to-air coverage from start to finish of each stage in the UK, along with a nightly highlights programme of the best of the action.
The OVO Energy Tour of Britain is British Cycling’s premier road cycling event, giving cycling fans the opportunity to see the world’s best teams and riders competing on their doorstep and helping to build a great cycling nation.
Photo: ToBi the OVO Energy Tour of Britain mascot with the Stage Two winner’s trophy at Scott’s View. Scott’s View will be a SKODA King of the Mountains finish on Sunday 8 September when Stage Two starts and finishes in the Scottish Borders.