Published: September 9, 2008
Crowd of 10,000 watch Tour of Britain cyclists arrive in Burnham-On-Sea

A huge crowd of more than 10,000 people flocked into Burnham-On-Sea today (Tuesday September 9th) to watch many of the world’s top cyclists, including British Olympic medal winners, race into the town to complete the South West Stage of the Tour of Britain cycle race.

Long lines of spectators, up to five people near to the finishing line in Marine Drive, saw Frenchman Emilien Berges (pictured below) clinch first place.

The 113-mile South West stage of Tour of Britain started at Chard and finished in Burnham's Marine Drive at 3pm, where excited onlookers watched the spectacle unfold.

Spectators were entertained before the arrival of the cyclists by a Romanian dance troupe, Highbridge's Monarchs gymnastic team and the Somerset Sapphires baton twirlers.

Visitors also had the chance to sample Somerset produce, take part in physical challenges and browse numerous stalls. There was also live music and British Cycling's Go Ride team were on hand to help people learn cycling skills.

Children from schools around the area also took part in their own ride over the finish line in Marine Drive before the racers arrived.

Second spot in the race went to Geoffrey Lequarte and third place was won by Gabriele Bosisio, fourth was Daniel Martin, fifth was Benny de Schrooder, and sixth was British cyclist Ian Stannard.

Graham Bagley, project manager for the race, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: "I am delighted with the way the event has unfolded today, despite the poor weather this morning. We had a big crowd in Burnham that I think was equal, or possibly bigger, to the 10,000 who watched last year."

Dennis Davey, district council chairman, who watched the race near the finishing line, added: "It's been wonderful to see such streams of people in Burnham for this event. It has been a great boost for the area."

Burnham and Highbridge Mayor Peter Clayton, who presented one of the awards to the winning cyclists, added: "I am delighted we have been able to host the finish. It brought many people to Burnham and I hope a lot will return. I think the day has been a great success."

Among those taking part was double gold Olympic medal winner Bradley Wiggins, who was representing Team Columbia in the Tour of Britain. Gold medalist Geraint Thomas, who also competed in the Olympics team pursuit races, represented the Barloworld team. And Chris Newton, who won bronze in the men’s individual pursuit, cycled for the Tour of Britain Rapha Condor team.

Click here for Burnham-On-Sea.com's photo gallery of the event