DAWLISH is gearing up for one of the biggest events of the summer as elite cyclists race a course around the town.

The Dawlish Grand Prix is part of the Lloyds National Circuit Series which sees the best riders in the country in town for the final round of the prestigious British Cycling Series.

Dawlish has been chosen for the first time as the final host town.

But the event had prompted some complaints about disruption and long diversions for traffic as the main A379 through Dawlish will be closed between midday and 11pm on Friday July 25.

The closure will involve diversions for traffic although provision is being made for buses.

Official letters have been delivered to residents and businesses along the race course this week.

A spokesman for Dawlish Town Council said: ‘Thank you for your patience and understanding and we hope that you all will enjoy hosting this amazing event here in Dawlish.’

But the disruption is being seen as a minor inconvenience for what is a major coup for Dawlish.

County councillor Rosie Dawson said: ‘This is a great opportunity and we hope people will get on board.

‘Thousands of people travel to these events and we need this as a town but we need to plan around the impact it may cause.

‘When else are we going to be able to see these cyclists race around the streets of Dawlish?

‘Bringing something new will help us keep Dawlish on the map.’

Historian David Force added: ‘This is a real coup for Dawlish and will bring a lot of visitors to the town, as well as some much needed trade for the shops, cafes, pubs.

‘The publicity will also be a great advert for the town.’

Preparations are well underway to the conclusion of the National Circuit Series which is being hosted in partnership with the South West Road Race Workgroup and Dawlish Town Council.

Alongside the thrill of professional, national level racers, the day will include family fun a market located on The Lawn and refreshments.

There will also be a variety of entertainment including live music from local band The Crazy Foot Tappers with David Millward performing all day, children’s games and crafts to vintage bicycle displays and amazing live stunt bike riding demonstrations.

As the last stop on the National Circuit Series calendar, the race will decide the overall champion.

Riders will need to balance strategy, endurance, and speed as they navigate a fast, technical circuit.

There is also a rare chance for families and children to ride their own bikes on the professional Grand Prix course before the race.

This will take place at 1pm, taking in the 1km course and led by the Mayor Cllr Anthony James.

There will also be an Under 8s and balance bike race, on the length of the finishing straight for local riders and and Under 12’s race on the whole of the course and lasting for 10 minutes.

The elite racing starts at 7pm and the award ceremony will be at 9pm.