Surrey to host final stage of Tour of Britain

Surrey will host the final stage of the Tour of Britain when the national race takes place in September.

Surrey County Council has captured the last stage of the 840-mile event after bringing the men’s and women’s Olympic Cycle Road Races and Time Trials to the county.

It takes place on Sunday 16 September, starting in Reigate and finishing on the cobble stones of Guildford’s steep High Street.

In recent years the race has attracted Tour de France stage winners such as Britain’s Mark Cavendish and former world champions including Thor Hushovd.

Helyn Clack

Helyn Clack, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Services and the 2012 Games said: “The bone juddering cobbles of Guildford will provide an exhilarating finale to this incredible event.

“We’re already hosting the Olympic cycle road races and time trials and the Tour could boost our local economy by up to £5.5 million and continue to strengthen our reputation as a world-class cycling destination.”

Hugh Roberts

Hugh Roberts, Chief Executive of organiser and promoter SweetSpot Group, said: “As a Surrey based company we are very excited to be putting on the final stage of The Tour of Britain on home roads.”

“In Guildford we have one of the most scenic locations for the finish of a major stage race anywhere in the world, so are eagerly anticipating Sunday 16 September.”

Cllr Tony Rooth

Cllr Tony Rooth, Guildford Borough Council Leader, said: “It’s fantastic news that Guildford, which is so popular with cyclists, will be centre stage at the finish of this prestigious national event.”

The stage will cover more than 90 miles of Surrey roads with the riders passing through Guildford early in the day before returning for the finish.

Dorking, Shere, Mayford, West Horsley, Ockley, Cranleigh, Dunsfold, Witley and Bramley are also on the route.

The race begins in Suffolk on Sunday 9 September.