A WOMEN’S road race has been described as an “amazing spectacle” by a councillor who also hopes the appearance of a world famous cyclist will help raise its profile.

Last Friday the penultimate stage of the Women’s Tour saw some of the planet’s best pedal-pushers cycle from Colchester to Clacton.

In a thrilling conclusion Lorena Wiebes crossed the finishing line - in Marine Parade West - in first place as hundreds of spectators cheered on the pack.

The town’s cycling fans were also treated to a special guest appearance from the world’s greatest male sprint biker, Mark Cavendish.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

The iconic sportsman, who has won 34 Tour de France stages and an Olympic silver medal, appeared on the presentation platform to speak about women’s cycling.

Alex Porter, Tendring councillor responsible for leisure and tourism, has now praised the race’s fast female cyclists and Mark Cavendish for raising the event’s profile.

“There was such a buzz around the finish line in Clacton and right around the district as people came out to cheer on the riders,” he added.

“As well as being an amazing spectacle it was inspiring to see these top female riders racing around our district.

“It was fantastic to welcome to Clacton Mark Cavendish, who spoke eloquently in support of the women’s sport and hopefully helped to raise its profile.

“This was not only a fun event for the community, but also of benefit to business with teams and race organisers staying in the area ahead of the stage and eating locally.

“We look forward to hopefully hosting professional cycling in Tendring again in the future.”