Tour of Britain to make spectacular return to the North East as the route is revealed

The UK’s most prestigious cycle race will make a spectacular return to the North East this year.

It has been confirmed today that two bids to bring the world’s top cyclists back to the region in September have been successful.

The third leg of the Tour of Britain will be staged across a picturesque route through Northumberland, North Tyneside and Newcastle - including a dramatic city centre finish.

Then stage four of the race will start on the Gateshead Quayside the following day as part of a route that will also pass the world famous Angel of the North.

Hosting a double bill of the country's premier professional cycling race is a major coup for the region's leaders.

North of Tyne Mayor Jamie Driscoll said: “This is great news - I’m really looking forward to the Tour of Britain coming to the North of Tyne.