The Tour of Britain cycling event is returning to Oldham this weekend, with more than 100 of the world's best riders set to make their way through the borough.

This Sunday (September 3), Oldhamers will line the streets to watch cyclists taking part in the UK’s most prestigious cycle race ride through Saddleworth, Shaw and Crompton.

The world-renowned multi-stage event is regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious cycling races and will be back in Oldham for the first time since 2019.

Greater Manchester is hosting stage one of the UK's biggest professional cycling race, or the "Grand Depart" as it is called, on September 3.

Oldham's challenging terrain is likely to be one of the highlights of the stage due to its steep hills, winding roads and frequently high winds, which cyclists will surely relish.

Competitors of this year’s Tour of Britain will start in Altrincham before making their way through to Stockport and Tameside and then into Oldham via Greenfield.

Riders will pedal past Uppermill, Dobcross and Delph before taking on a steep incline up to Grains Bar.

The pack will then ride into Shaw, via Crompton, before cycling through Rochdale, Bury, Bolton, Wigan and Salford, with the finish line on Deansgate in central Manchester.

Oldham Council is supporting local activities in High Crompton Park and Shaw's George Street Skate Park on the day which residents can enjoy for free, including lots of crafts and activities for people of all ages.

A display of vintage cycles will also be open at Saddleworth Museum, plus refreshments will be available for residents at Little Owl Farm at Grains Bar.

The council has also organised a competition to reward the best decorated homes and businesses along the main route.

Decorations must tie in with the theme and spirit of the race in order to take part, so plenty of reds, whites, and blues should be on show.

Entrants must complete an online form on the council's website before Monday (September 4). with the winning business and homeowner each receiving a voucher worth £100.

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Cllr Arooj Shah, leader of Oldham Council, said: "We are delighted to be welcoming back the Tour of Britain, which was such a success when it last came to Oldham in 2019.

"It was fantastic to see thousands of residents come out in support of the riders last time around and I look forward to seeing the same buzz in our communities next Sunday as the riders pass through."

Cllr Peter Dean, Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, added:  "We’ve got some great events happening before and after the race too in spots along the route for spectators to get involved in, as well as a creative competition for everyone to take part in.

"There’s plenty going on to celebrate this great sporting occasion so be sure to come out with your family and friends and be a part of all of this fun."

Greater Manchester is the first of eight stages in the race, with other sections including areas of Essex, Gloucester, Cheshire, East Riding, Suffolk, Nottinghamshire and Wales.

People who wish to enter the council's best decoration contest can do so by clicking here.