Derbyshire Police use arrival of the Tour Of Britain to remind people about rules of the road

Derbyshire Police have used the arrival of the Tour of Britain road race in the county to remind both motorists and cyclists of the rules of the road.

With Derby City Centre marking the start point for the race, it is the first time that the city has started the race since it began 20 years ago.

On Friday 6th September 2024, from Derby Arena, the racers will travel through areas including Borrowash, Dale Abbey and West Hallam, before crossing into Nottinghamshire at Eastwood then continuing through Hucknall, Ravenshead, Blidworth, Southwell and Tuxford, and crossing the River Trent to race south to finish the stage in Newark-on-Trent.

There will be rolling road closures along the route, and it is expected that there may be short delays for drivers who are in the area.

You can see the full route of the race, and timings for each leg, on the Tour of Britain website: Route (britishcycling.org.uk). 

Officers said that they were looking forward to seeing the professional cyclists racing through the county, and felt that many Derbyshire cyclists would be too.

However, they said that for those who were inspired to get out on a bike, it was important to remember the highway code and for cyclists and drivers alike to look after each other.

A statement said that cyclists have a responsibility to ride with respect and use cycle lanes when available, adding that it can be safer to ride side by side when riding in a group, however riders should consider moving into single file when possible, to allow cars to overtake.

Car drivers are being reminded to keep an eye out for more vulnerable road users, give at least 1.5m distance between the car and the cyclist when overtaking, give each other space on the road and drive and ride responsibly.

Good luck was wished to those racing in The Tour of Britain. and thanks were offered to police officers out along the route and maintaining the road closures as the riders travel through the county.