The director of the world’s biggest cycle race has visited Essex.
Christian Prudhomme, general director of the Tour de France, met county councillors as he toured the 2014 route.
Stage three of this year’s race comes to Essex, including Rayne, Shalford and Finchingfield.
Mr Prudhomme said: “After leaving Cambridge, the race moves on to Essex to showcase the county’s beautiful towns, villages and countryside, before moving onto London for a spectacular finish on the Mall – seven years to the day after the 2007 Grand Départ.
“We are proud to come back to London and the UK, which will provide an incredible backdrop for the Tour.”
Ann Naylor, county councillor for health and wellbeing, said: “I am thrilled about the great things the Tour de France will bring to our county and am sure the international cyclists will receive an enthusiastic welcome from all Essex residents who watch the race.”
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