CYCLING is fast becoming a major attraction in Selkirk and the surrounding area.
And local enthusiasts are gearing up once more to welcome hundreds of cyclists as the Tour o’ the Borders wheels into the Valleys next month.
In just its second year, the mass-participation event has grown from 286 riders in 2012 to selling out all 1,000 places this year.
Taking place on Sunday, April 14, the sportive-style event will start and finish in Peebles, passing through the Ettrick and Yarrow Valleys, as well as Roberton, Ashkirk and Traquair.
Roads will remain open throughout the race, but there may be delays to allow cyclists to pass through safely.
John Anderson, co-director of the tour, said: “We really hope that the local community get behind the event.
“We realise there could be some minor disruptions to roads featured on the route, and we would encourage anyone who has any concerns or questions to get in touch with us directly – please email info@tourotheborders.com or call me on 07831636690.”
And Neil Dalgleish, the tour’s co-director, added: “We think the tour is a fantastic way to showcase just what a special area the Borders is.
“We’re delighted that the event has proved so popular in just its second year – 1,000 cyclists is a huge boost to the local economy. We even have entrants coming all the way from Germany and the USA.
“We really hope local people, especially those who live on the route, come out to show their support and watch this fantastic event.
“It’s a great spectacle and a fun day out.”
For Selkirk, the tour signals the start of what will be a busy year for two-wheel traffic in the area.
In June, the 2013 British Mountain Bike (MTB) Championships are coming to town as part of the award-winning Selkirk MTB event.
For more information about the timings and route taken by the Tour o’ the Borders, visit www.tourotheborders.com.