Northamptonshire will host a stage of the prestigious Women’s Tour cycling event for the fourth year this summer, bringing thousands of visitors to the county.

It will hold the Grand Depart – the opening stage of the five-day race – on Wednesday 7th June, starting for the first time in Daventry and finishing once again in Kettering.

Last year’s event saw a record-breaking 80,000 people watch the race in Northamptonshire, generating £1.6m for the local economy with spectators, cyclists and media personnel spending on things like accommodation, food and drink, and merchandise.

Cllr Heather Smith, leader of Northamptonshire County Council, which is responsible for bringing the race to the county, said: “The Women’s Tour is becoming a much-loved fixture in Northamptonshire’s summer calendar and an incredibly popular event for everyone from cycling fans to families and schoolchildren.

“It’s wonderful that we are able to host a stage of this world-class sporting event for the fourth consecutive year and we believe it has an important role to play in inspiring people to get more active.

“Last year’s county stage saw a record number of spectators lining the route thorough Northamptonshire and I very much hope we can smash that record this June!”

Cllr Mark Dearing, portfolio holder for regeneration at Kettering Borough Council, said: “It’s great to see the Women’s Tour professional cycling race back in Northamptonshire and I’m delighted that this stage of the race will finish in Kettering for the third year running.  

“Whether you watch the race at the start, finish or along the route, it promises to be a real spectacle. The race will not only draw the crowds into the area, it will help encourage more people to take up cycling and live a more active and healthy lifestyle.”

Cllr Alan Hills, Daventry District Council’s community, culture and leisure portfolio holder, said: “We’re delighted and honoured to be hosting the prestigious Grand Depart of The Women’s Tour in Daventry.

“Last year’s race received an amazing reception and support from our local communities and showcased our beautiful district to a worldwide audience.

“I would urge people to come along and watch this year’s event, which is set to draw even greater crowds, bring a real economic boost to our businesses and encourage and inspire more people to take up cycling and get active.”

Details about the full route of the Northamptonshire stage and the riders and teams who will compete are due to be announced in the coming months.

Commenting on the announcement, Mick Bennett, Race Director for The Women’s Tour said, “We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with Northamptonshire County Council for a fourth year and to once again be bringing the world’s top riders to race in the county.”

Alongside The Women’s Tour, Northamptonshire County Council and SweetSpot will hold a mass participation cycling event on Sunday 18th June.

Starting and finishing from Delapre Abbey in Northampton, The Tour Ride will follow part of The Women’s Tour route that the world’s top riders have raced on annually since 2014, with 10-mile, 40-mile and 80-mile routes available.

For more information about The Women’s Tour in Northamptonshire, visit www.northamptonshire.gov.uk/womenstour, or www.tourride.co.uk for details about The Tour Ride including how to sign up.

View the highlights of last year’s Northamptonshire Stage here: