A GIANT clock has been unveiled on Northallerton Town Hall to count down to the biggest sporting event in the town’s history.

It’s now just over a month to the UCI Road World Championships when thousands of international visitors will visit the county town for the men’s elite individual time trial.

And the 3m-wide LCD clock will remind everyone to get ready for the arrival of cycling’s biggest stars on Wednesday September 25.

Northallerton Business Improvement District (BID) is partnering with Northallerton Town Council and Hambleton District Council to spread awareness about the event, which is expected to attract a worldwide TV audience of 250 million.

BID manager Graham Bell said: “There’s a real buzz of excitement around Northallerton about the event and our clock will encourage everyone to get ready to welcome the world.

“Everyone is working hard behind the scenes to make sure our lovely town is looking its very best for the big day.”

Hambleton District Council Leader, Councillor Mark Robson added: “Welcoming the world’s top cyclists to Hambleton is going to put us well and truly on the map.

“Northallerton will be awash with the rainbow colours of the race and this clock adds to the excitement building up to September 25.”

More than 70 businesses have adopted countries for the championships and have been given large flags and window stickers by the BID.