Eyes of the world on Caerphilly for Tour of Britain finale

The eyes of the world were on Caerphilly today as the town hosted the finale of this year’s Tour of Britain.

The eight-day event, which saw riders and teams from around the globe battle it out over gruelling distances across the UK, was broadcast to more than 150 countries.

The eighth and final stage saw the 91 riders take on the 166km journey from Margam Park, near Port Talbot, to Caerphilly town centre on Sunday September 10.

Spaniard Carlos Rodriguez, of British team INEOS Grenadiers, won the final stage while Belgium’s Wout van Aert, of Dutch team Jumbo-Visma, was crowned overall tournament winner.

Crowds adorned the streets of Caerphilly County Borough as the tour passed through Nelson, Tredomen, Ystrad Mynach and Llanbradach before entering Caerphilly town.

An electric atmosphere greeted the riders as they passed through Castle Street and Cardiff Road, before their journey took them twice around Caerphilly Mountain, around Castle View and along Nantgarw Road back into town.

Despite rain earlier in the day, the sun shone through and temperatures soared as thousands of residents and visitors alike turned out in force.

Caerphilly resident Lianne Thomas, who watched the race from Caerphilly town centre, spoke of how proud she was to see “this wonderful event coming to Caerphilly” and continued: “It really puts Caerphilly on the map.

“Events like this need to take place more often here because we have the beautiful backdrop of this gorgeous castle and it generates lots and lots of visitors and helps out the local economy.”

Caerphilly’s monthly craft fair, Crafty Legs, was also in town on the day, along with its green and yellow gazebos.

Sarah Harris-Clint, who runs the craft fair with husband Gareth Clint, told Caerphilly Observer: “It’s absolutely amazing how there’s this grand event and they’ve chosen Caerphilly for their final, bringing so many people into our town.

“It’s amazing for all the small businesses, the bigger businesses, and it’s so good to see everyone just getting together – there’s people from all over the world here.”

Sarah continued: “To be part of an event like this is brilliant. We’re so proud to be part of this event in our town, and to be able to give our small businesses such a platform like this.”

Caerphilly County Borough Council deputy leader Jamie Pritchard praised the impact the event had on the town.

Cllr Pritchard said: “The Tour of Britain put Caerphilly on the map. Our town centre-specific events are designed to support businesses, particularly at a time when things are difficult.

“It was a fantastic turnout yet again. We know the events are extremely popular, so more events are needed across the county borough.”

Meanwhile, Caerphilly town mayor Mike Prew said: “It’s a fantastic event and it’s great to see it back in Caerphilly, like it should be.

“To have the final leg here is absolutely amazing. Thank you to everyone involved.”