• EXCLUSIVE: Major new cycling race for Hull revealed
A new international cycling event taking in many of Hull and East Yorkshire's best-known landmarks will deliver a much-needed boost to our economy, according to business chiefs. The televised three-day race, which will bring the world's top riders to Hull and the East Riding when it launches in May 2015, will become an annual showcase. As Leeds prepares to host the opening stage of this year's Tour De France on July 5, its economy is already reaping the rewards. It is predicted next year's inaugural event, which will be named once a sponsorship agreement has been made, will have a similar long-term impact on Hull and East Yorkshire's economy, potentially bringing thousands of tourists to the city. David Hooper, at The Hull and Humber Chamber of Commerce, said: "This would certainly be one of the biggest events to be held in Hull and surrounding areas. "It is such an exciting time to be living in Hull. An event of this magnitude would only help business in the area. "The ferry operators, hotels and local businesses will all experience a boom and we obviously welcome that. "Hull seems to be gathering momentum at a real pace and this event just adds to that." The stage race, which could start in Hull, is being organised by Welcome to Yorkshire, British Cycling and Amaury Sport Organisation, which runs the Tour de France. It is hoped the annual showcase will bring long-term financial benefits.Barry Ashton, manager at Kingston Cycles in Hessle Road, said: "This is exciting news for the area, not just for cycling fans but for businesses too. Obviously, the more people that come to Hull, the more business there is for local firms.
"I think cycle shops will benefit too. If people are out on the streets watching famous cyclists then they may want to get on a bike themselves.
"There is a real buzz around cycling at the moment in the city. It is at an all-time high.
"Cycling is so popular now and everyone seems to be doing it.
"We were very disappointed not to get a piece of the Tour de France, so hopefully this event will make up for that. It certainly sounds great."
Welcome to Yorkshire chief executive Gary Verity on the new race
Peter Aarosin, chair of the Bondholders marketing organisation which promotes Hull and the Humber, said: "It is hugely exciting this event is coming to Hull and the East Riding and will capitalise on the massive interest already being generated by the Grand Depart of the Tour de France.
"Cycling is seeing massive growth, both as a participation and spectator sport, as a result of the successes enjoyed by British cyclists at the London Olympics and the Tour de France.
"This event is sure to draw many thousands of people to the area. Potentially, the visitor spend could run into millions of pounds.
"The television coverage is also very welcome, as it will promote and showcase the area's appeal as a visitor destination."
Millions of viewers will be able to see what a wonderful area this is, which can only be positive in supporting all the work to bring investment into the region."
Steve Brady: Great news for regionPoliticians have described plans for a new international cycling event in East Yorkshire as "more great news" for the region.
Steve Brady, leader of Hull City Council, said: "This is more great news for Hull and we look forward to welcoming a major cycling event to our already thriving city.
"We are already preparing for the 2014 British Cycling National Circuit Race Championship on July 29.
"The event will showcase what Hull has to offer as a visitor destination on an international level, while encouraging tourism to the region in time for 2017."
Councillor Jane Evison, cabinet portfolio holder for economy, investment and inequalities at East Riding Council, said: "The council welcomes the announcement of a new, annual cycling event, to be launched next year by Welcome to Yorkshire.
"We await further details with interest.
"The East Riding has many links with cycling and is a keen promoter of the activity for both leisure and as a sustainable form of transportation.
"Cycling plays an important part of the East Riding's tourism offer and major events linked to the sport provide great opportunities for the local economy."
'Cycling is the new golf'Cycling's popularity has rocketed thanks to the success of British riders such as Tour de France winners Bradley Wiggins and Chris Froome, and former World Champion Mark Cavendish.
Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, said: "Cycling is the new golf. Everyone is doing it and it is absolutely brilliant. It is so good for you and it really is one of the best sports to get involved in.
"More and more people are cycling to work and school now.
"My hope is this new event in Hull and East Riding will help that even more."
Regular cycling can help people lose weight, reduce stress and improve fitness.
A person who weighs 12st will burn more than 650 calories with an hour's riding, and tone their legs and bottom. If they ride up hills or off-road, they will also work their upper body.
Toddlers, pensioners, the able-bodied or people with disabilities can all enjoy cycling if they have the right equipment.
An estimated 3.1 million people ride a bicycle each month.
