Bradley Wiggins races to Old Woking

THOUSANDS of people are expected to line the streets around Old Woking when the Tour of Britain arrives on Sunday (September 16).

Crowds will gather to cheer on 100 of the world's top cyclists - including Olympic hero Bradley Wiggins - for the Tour's final stage.

The race, which starts at noon in Reigate and ends around 3.30pm in Guildford, is due to arrive in Old Woking shortly between 1.15pm to 1.30pm.

Racers will hurtle along the B380 Westfield Road towards Westfield before entering High Street in Old Woking and along Broadmoor Road towards Send.

Unlike the Olympic races where all roads on the route were closed from early in the morning, for the Tour of Britain most roads will only be closed for a short time just before the cyclists come through and will open again once the last support vehicle has passed by.

Surrey County Council (SCC) has sent newsletters to residents and businesses on the route. The leaflets include detailed information about road closures, parking restrictions, maps and tips for how people can plan ahead and enjoy the action.

Helyn Clack, SCC cabinet member for community Services and the 2012 Games, said: "There's no doubt people will turn out in their droves to turn Surrey's stage into a lap of honour for Bradley Wiggins.

"His achievements on the bike this summer have been stunning and spectators will also be cheering their approval for Mark Cavendish's amazing exploits.

"Although most roads on the route will only be closed for a short time while the cyclists pass through, we're urging people to be prepared and plan ahead. That will help us to minimise disruption."