From Adrian Lane, Exeter 383262, April 29, 2008

DEVON County Council is aiming to help make the south west stage of the Tour of Britain the most exciting of the entire event.

The 185km route through the region on Tuesday 9 September has been unveiled as the longest of the entire race.

The stage is being hosted by Somerset County Council with the support of Devon County Council, South Somerset District Council, Exmoor National Park Authority and the South West Regional Development Agency.

Organisers predict it will once again prove the toughest of the event, setting off from Chard in Somerset, before crossing the Blackdown Hills with a King of the Mountains climb. The 80 km through Devon takes in Tiverton, South Molton and another King of the Mountain trial in North Molton. The stage then continues on to Exmoor and Somerset, finishing in Burnham-on-Sea.

Councillor Margaret Rogers, Executive Member for Environment, said: "As the lead councillor for our overall approach to cycling, I am delighted with the success the County Council has had in creating quality cycle routes in Devon. Supporting the the Tour of Britain as it passes through Devon this year is another feather in our cap and further recognition of the opportunities the county offers for cyclists of all ages."

Councillor Humphrey Temperley, Devon County Council Executive Member for Economic Regeneration and Regional Affairs, said: "Last year's stage through Devon was a resounding success, not only as an incredible spectacle, but also in terms of the visitors that it attracted to the area. With the event returning, and this time with an extended route through Devon, hopefully even more local businesses can benefit this time around. We would like communities along the route to join in the festivities of this event, show their support to the riders and enjoy the occasion of such a prestigious sporting event."

Councillor Des Hannon, Devon County Council's Member Champion for Cycling and County Councillor for Tiverton East, attended the Tour of Britain south west stage launch. He said: "I'm responsible for promoting cycling in Devon, so I'm thrilled that we've been able to tempt the country's premier race to come here for an even bigger visit.

"On a personal note, I'm absolutely delighted that the organisers have chosen to come to my hometown of Tiverton. The race is a real coup for our beautifully refurbished town centre and we'll make everyone welcome. It's also a great opportunity for our young people to see elite athletes in action on our streets."

Councillor Ray Radford, Devon County Councillor for Willand and Uffculme, said: "As the event makes its way from the Blackdown Hills through the Culm Valley to Tiverton, I'm certain the support teams and visitors will not fail to notice the stunning countryside. I hope the competitors will not lose too much time admiring it, and that they will come back and see us when they are not in so much hurry. Until then, we thank everyone who will visit and hope it is a good competition."

Councillor Mary Turner, Devon County Councillor for Tiverton West, said: "Enjoy the race and stop off and enjoy Tiverton."

Councillor Jeremy Yabsley, Devon County Councillor for South Molton Rural, said: "Hosting part of this stage of the Tour of Britain is a real coup for Devon and I'm sure South Molton and North Molton can provide the backdrop and challenge required for such a prestigious event. We look forward to welcoming the thousands of visitors that this race attracts, especially as it expected to be the biggest and best Tour of Britain yet."

Last year, Romain Feillu of France won the overall title, but Britain was well represented with Mark Cavendish taking the jersey for Hot Spot Sprints and Ben Swift winning the King of the Mountains.

The Tour of Britain 2008 is the biggest the race has ever been and will be televised daily on ITV4. The eight day race starts in London on 7 September and finishes in Liverpool on 14 September.

Notes for Editors:

Councillor Margaret Rogers 01297 680384

Councillor Humphrey Temperley, 07966 411654

Councillor Des Hannon, 07990 566699

Councillor Ray Radford, 01884 820000

Councillor Mary Turner, 01884 254750

Councillor Jeremy Yabsley, 01884 860745