CYCLISTS will bring back memories of the successful Tour de France Grand Depart when a North-East town holds its first-ever road race next month.

The Bishop Auckland Cycle Race, featuring separate events for youth, amateur and professional cyclists, will take place on Wednesday, August 6.

People are being encouraged to turn up for the races, which follow an 850m closed-road circuit in the town centre along Fore Bondgate, Finkle Street, North Bondgate and the Market Place.

The event is being organised by Middlesbrough-based cycling organisation Velo29 Events and is supported by Durham County Council and Bishop Auckland Town Council.

Six to 16-year-olds will race between 5.30pm and 6.15pm; the amateur event will run from 6.45pm to 7.45pm and the professional race will start at 8pm and is expected to run until 9.15pm.

Bishop Auckland and Shildon Area Action Partnership has also provided funding for the event through Councillor Sam Zair’s neighbourhood budget.

Councillor Maria Plews, cabinet member for leisure, libraries and lifelong learning at Durham County Council, said: “It follows the successful Pearl Izumi Tour Series which attracted large crowds when it came to Durham City in May, as well as the challenging 60-mile Marie Curie Cancer Care Etape Pennines which took place in Teesdale and Weardale at the weekend.

“We hope people will come along and watch the races, cheer on the cyclists and enjoy the atmosphere of the event.”

Richard Williamson, of Velo29 Events, added: “The races will include three categories – youth, amateur and the professional elite cyclists from across the country – so people will have a chance to see competitors at all levels.

“We already organise a number of events each year in the North-East but this is the first time we have held this event in Bishop Auckland.

“Cycling is so popular and our aim is to increase not only the opportunities to take part in the sport but also the opportunity for people to come along and see some of the country’s best cyclists in action.”

Signs detailing road closures and diversion are expected to be erected this week.

North Bondgate car park will close at 3pm on the day and alternative parking will be available at the Newgate Centre, which will remain open until 10pm.

For further information about the traffic arrangements contact Durham County Council by emailing events@durham.gov.uk or call 03000-282012.

Cyclists wishing to take part can enter at velo29events.com People are asked to register in advance but if places are still available entries will be accepted on the day.