OVO Energy Tour of Britain will kick off at Pembrey Country Park this Sunday, September 2 where the world’s best cyclists will begin stage one of their race across the UK by travelling through Carmarthenshire.

Thousands are expected to line the route and if you are hoping to see the likes of Geraint Thomas and Chris Froome race past you, along with hundreds of other world-famous cyclists, you can do so at the viewing points in Pembrey, Kidwelly, Carmarthen, Nantgaredig, Llanarthney, Ffairfach and Llandovery.

It is important to remember, however, that riders pass by very fast. So, if you are planning to watch the event, remain safe by keeping children back from the road edge and animals on a lead, keep bags, objects and photography equipment out of the road, and face oncoming riders and race convoy at all times.

If you wish to join in on the excitement, there will be a number of activities throughout Carmarthenshire and all County Council car parks will be free for the day.

Pembrey Country Park - 11:00am

Pembrey are holding a ‘festival of cycling’ which begins on Saturday September 1. There will be cycling activities throughout the weekend for all ages and live music performed in the evening. Pembrey Country Park have their very own ‘Gwair Geraint’ which is an ideal spot to watch the race travel through the county on the big screen.

It is advised that you get there early and park for £2 before 9am in one of the 1200 parking spaces available, as there will be no parking on Factory Road which will be closed from 9:30 until approximately 13:00 to allow the race to depart safely. If the car parks are full before half 9, the road will close then.

Ffairfach – 12:13pm

There will be a fun-filled day of activities at Ffairfach Primary School and Ffairfach playground on the day of the race, there will be refreshments, activities for children and adults alike and the Llandeilo Town band will be playing.

There is no designated parking available, but you could park in Ysgol Bro Dinefwr, Ysgol Tregib or Crescent Road car park as all are close to the viewing area. There will be a rolling road closure for a short period of time as the cyclists pass through.

Llandovery - 12:40pm

Llandovery is the last town before the tour leaves Carmarthenshire for Powys and is a fantastic flat location to watch the tour, especially as one of the sprint races is here.

Llandovery are holding a family fun day that includes road and cycling safety activities, general stalls in Market Square, bicycle competitions, choir and band performances. There will be a children’s competition for the best decorated and painted bike and a display of vintage bicycles.

The Carmarthenshire County Council managed car park next to the Castle in Llandovery Town is free to use.

Market Square will be closed from 9am until 4pm, from its junction with Broad Street to its junction with Stone Street and there will be a short rolling road closure.

County Hall Carmarthen will be another key viewing point for spectators with plenty of opportunities to grab a selfie with the big green bike. Radio Carmarthenshire will be broadcasting live form County Hall along with activities such as crazy golf, face painting, and Carmarthen castle tours.

There won’t be parking charges at any Carmarthenshire County Council car park that is on the Tour of Britain route, except for County Hall as it will be used as a viewing point.

There will be a children’s competition for the best decorated and painted bike and a display of vintage bicycles.