Beautiful sunny day, no wind, slight chill in the air. Went to Poulton Le Fylde which is about 3 miles from the start. Quite a few people lining the road including a school party from a school nearby.
The race was due to leave Stanley Park at 10.15 so was expected here around 10.25. Everything seemed normal with cars moving about, then a ‘peleton protection car’ came by to whip up a bit of enthusiasm with some announcements and to get the children cheering. Next came police motorcyclists relaying to each road junction stopping the traffic. Much larger than expected a mass of cyclists taking up the full width of the wide road with police cars and support teams and ambulance following at what seemed a fairly leisurely pace. It looked great and I was so envious of the riders with their fitness and being in it, although it would be too much dedication for me.
Tour of Britain Cycle Race 2009 leaving Blackpool