Bedale named as host town for 2019 Tour de Yorkshire

Bedale has been unveiled as one of the eight host locations for the 2019 Tour de Yorkshire.

Welcome to Yorkshire and the Amaury Sport Organisation announced today that the market town will be one of eight starts or finishes in Yorkshire.

It will be the second major bike race coming through the town next year – the UCI Road World Championships also visit Bedale five months later, next September.

Hambleton District Council leader, Councillor Mark Robson, who attended the press conference in Leeds today said he is delighted with the news, which has comes just days after plans for the UCI Road World Championships were unveiled.

Northallerton is hosting the start of the Men’s Elite Individual Time Trial next September.

“This is a massive coup for Hambleton – which is fast becoming known as a major cycling hub,” he said.

“Getting two races through the district will enable us to put the district well and truly on the map.  The Tour de Yorkshire brings in people from across the UK and Europe and we intend to make sure the area stands out next May.

“We don’t know whether we will be seeing the TDY race set off from our district or welcoming the riders home but whichever we will work hard to give everyone a very memorable experience.”

The race will take place over four days next year with Bedale joined by Barnsley, Bridlington, Doncaster, Halifax, Leeds, Scarborough and Selby as host towns.

It takes place from May 2 – 5.

Sir Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, said: “It’s always exciting to unveil the host towns for the Tour de Yorkshire and this year is no exception. We’re thrilled that Bedale will be making its debut as the town gave the riders an amazing reception when they passed through earlier this year.

The full 2018 race route will be unveiled on December 7 – this announcement will include exact start and finish locations and the distance and profile of each stage.