WARRINGTON will host stage five of the Tour of Britain in September 2021 for the first time.

The end of the stage will finish outside the Golden Gates in front of the Town Hall on Thursday 9 September 2021.

Warrington Borough Council had previously announced an agreement with the organisers to host the race, but this confirms the stage finish.

“Being chosen as a host venue for the Tour of Britain is a huge honour for Warrington and it’s fantastic news that the event will be going ahead in September,” said Warrington Borough Council Leader, Cllr Russ Bowden.

“It’s been a long wait, but I’m delighted that our town will finally have the chance to play its part in British cycling’s most high-profile, prestigious event.

“The Tour of Britain 2021 will bring huge benefits to our town, boosting the local economy, bringing an influx of visitors and showcasing our sporting credentials to a global audience.

“We also want ensure being a host venue serves as a catalyst for inspiring many more local people to take up cycling, supporting our plans to build sustainable travel into our future. September is set to be a hugely significant and exciting month for Warrington.”

Warrington has previously had the race pass through the town in 2012 during stage 2, when the race was from Nottingham to Knowsley Safari Park, though it has never hosted the Tour.

Mick Bennett, Tour of Britain race director, added: “There are few places finer than the Golden Gates to finish an international sporting event outside, so Warrington is going to be showcased to the world in all its glory come September.

“Based on the reception the Tour of Britain got when the 2012 race passed through, I have no doubt that the local residents will turn out en masse to watch the world’s best riders in action pass by – all for free, too!”

The Tour of Britain is set to begin on Sunday 5 and end on Sunday 12 September 2021, starting in Cornwall and ending in Aberdeen.