A RECORD-breaking global audience tuned in to watch the 2019 UCI Road World Championships which showcased vast swathes of North Yorkshire to millions.
Figures show that 329 million people in 124 countries watched the September event - an increase of 31 per cent up from 250 million the previous year.
Towns such as Northallerton, Richmond and Leyburn featured in the event and in Europe more than 6,500 hours of Championships coverage was beamed to 40 nations.
Every race was shown live on the BBC and there was extensive coverage in key cycling tourism markets such as Belgium, Holland and Germany.
The Men's Elite riders crossing Middleham bridge Picture: Chris Booth
Chair of Yorkshire 2019, Chris Pilling, said: “These are fantastic figures which far exceed our initial broadcast expectations. We pledged we would showcase Yorkshire to 250 million people across the globe, so to reach 329 million in 124 countries is very satisfying.
"We delivered an inclusive, innovative and inspiring Championships which I have no doubt will attract new visitors to our beautiful county for many years to come.”
Welcome to Yorkshire commercial director Peter Dodd said: “These figures are really impressive and it’s fair to say the eyes of the world were on Yorkshire during those nine days of action.
"The footage showcased some of the very best scenery we have to offer and we’re sure it will have inspired many people across the globe – cyclists and non-cyclists alike – to come and sample our great county for themselves.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here