Hosting world-class cycling will provide a real boost to Bridport's events calendar as the area emerges from the pandemic, the town mayor has said.

As reported, the eyes of the world will be on the area when it hosts the first ever Dorset stage of the Tour of Britain starting in West Bay.

The prestigious cycle race will begin its seventh stage in West Bay on Saturday, September 10.

Crowds will gather for an up close look at world class cyclists who will gather in the paddock before competing in the seventh stage of the race - its penultimate day - and departing for Ferndown.

The Tour will also pass through Dorchester, West Lulworth and Corfe Castle, before heading inland towards Wareham, Milton Abbas and Wimborne Minster before ending in Ferndown.

Around 114 cyclists from 19 teams are expected to be competing, including teams like INEOS Grenadiers, who sports fans may have seen racing at the Tour de France.

Bridport Mayor Cllr Ian Bark said: "I am delighted that West Bay has been chosen to host this part of the Tour.

"Our wonderful scenery and beaches, historic harbour area, sumptuous food and drink offering, the fascination of our Jurassic heritage, and a warm welcome await the riders and spectators alike.

"As well as the excitement of the race and all that West Bay has to offer, visitors will be just a short walk from Bridport town centre where they can enjoy a host of fabulous independent shops and restaurants, and the country's best street market by far.

"The choice of West Bay as the starting point for Stage 7 is a great boost to Bridport's annual events calendar as we emerge from two years when we have necessarily been unable to make the best of our reputation as 'Dorset's Eventful Town'. The race will follow hot on the heels of the quirky and joyous Hat Festival on 3 Sept, so why not turn your visit into a longer stay - I promise you won't regret it!"

A Tour of Britain spokesman said those behind the event are excited to bring it to West Bay.

He added: "I'm sure it will be very popular, given that it is both a Saturday and that for our many fans in the likes of Devon and Cornwall it will be their best chance to see the Tour of Britain in 2021.

"Bringing the Tour of Britain to a new area is always exciting for us and give us the chance to showcase professional cycling to new audiences and hopefully inspire more people to get on their bikes!"

ITV4 will show flag-to-flag coverage of every stage, as well as a nightly highlights show. The race will also be shown in over 150 countries worldwide.

Last year’s star-studded race was won by Belgian rider Wout Van Aert (Team Jumbo – Visma), with reigning world road race champion Julian Alaphilippe finishing third overall.

A roadside crowd of more than one million spectators resulted in the Tour of Britain generating £29.96m of net economic benefit for the UK economy, according to research by Frontline.