THE final stage of the Tour of Britain cycling race will be coming through Upton, Malvern and Ledbury on its way to the finish line in Cardiff.

The event, on Sunday September 10, is expected to bring a major boost to the local economy.

The cyclists will start in Worcester, before going through Pershore, Defford, Baughton, Upton, Welland, Little

Malvern and British Camp, and then through Ledbury, Trumpet and Tarrington, before heading towards Wales.

Worcestershire previously managed to secure a section of the race in 2014, boosting the county’s economy by £1 million.

Jack Hegarty, the chief executive of Malvern Hills District Council, said: “It is fantastic news – cycling is growing in popularity across the country.

“It will be a great opportunity to see some elite riders in action as well as showcase our beautiful part of the

world.”

Ledbury mayor Debbie Baker said it is "brilliant" that the race is visiting the town.

She said: "Last time a cycle race came to town, I was one of the crowd lining the street, cheering them on, and I'm sure a lot of people will turn out this time.

"It will be great publicity for the town, it will bring people in and they'll spend money here. It's brilliant."

The event, officially titled the OVO Energy Tour of Britain, starts on Sunday, September 3, at Edinburgh. It is the UK’s biggest free-to-watch sporting event and the country’s top-ranked professional stage race for cyclists.

It attracts the world’s top cyclists including Olympic champions, world champions and Tour de France stage winners,

Race director Mick Bennett said: “Worcester has always provided the OVO Energy Tour of Britain with a warm welcome and large crowds, and we are sure that will be no different this September.

“For a city outside London to have the opportunity to host the start of the final stage is a rare privilege, which we know Worcestershire will fully embrace.”