British Cycling National Circuit Series to return for Newark Town Centre Races this week

This Friday the town centre will once again resonate with the sounds of wheels on tarmac as the elite of British cycling face off.

Following the massive success of last year’s race, the historic backdrop of Newark’s Royal Market will once again place host to the finale of the British Cycling National Circuit Series.

There will be plenty of fun things for families to see and do throughout the day and businesses are hoping for a repeat of last year which saw a massive influx of visitors to Newark, leading to increased footfall through the evening.

However, there will be some disruption to transport in the town during the event itself with a number of road closures and bus services affected.

The event is due to start at 4pm, with the final race taking place at 8.30pm — which will see the Men’s National Circuit Series champion crowned.

Times for the competitive races are as follows:

• 4pm - The Ceremonial Opening followed by the Newark Crit Community Ride
• 4.30pm - A Pro AM sponsors relay using Brompton Bikes
• 5pm - Under 12s racing for 15 minutes
• 5.30pm - Under 14s racing for 20 minutes
• 6pm - Under 16s racing for 25 minutes
• 6.35pm - Regional / Amateurs race for 45 minutes
• 7.30pm - Womens National Circuit Series Finale 50 minutes
• 8.30pm - Mens National Circuit Series Finale for 50 minutes

“This is a superb event, very colourful and exciting. It really brings the Royal Market Place to life with so many spectators and competitors,” said Susan Crosby, Newark and Sherwood District Council’s portfolio holder for Health, Wellbeing and Leisure.

“As with last year, it’s a great honour for Newark to be hosting the finale of this series.

“Newark is a great place for cyclists — we have the four Brompton Bike hubs where anyone can hire a bike to get around the town, the new cycling facilities at the YMCA coming soon and of course we will be welcoming the Tour of Britain in September.

“It’s really important for us that cyclists of all levels can enjoy our district. There are cycle paths and trails for commuters and recreational cyclists alike.

“We hope by welcoming the Town Centre races to Newark that we inspire more people to dust off their bikes and get pedalling this summer.”

Event organiser and director, Chris Lawrence from British Cycling, said: “We really want to build on the great success of last year, it really felt like everyone got behind us on the day.

“We want local business to get involved this year, and we really appreciate their help and tolerance as we know that organising a national event like this can be disruptive.

“Feedback from last year’s event was overwhelmingly positive which is why we are so happy to be back again this year.”

Council leader, Paul Peacock, said: “I am excited to see so many elite level events happening in our district this year.

“I really hope it inspires our communities to take to two wheels and discover the hidden gems around the district.

“I’d encourage anyone to sign up for the community ride which kicks things off. What a great way to start the school summer holidays.”