THREE villages across Tendring are set to host a climb and two sprints as part of a prestigious international women’s cycling race this summer.

The second stage of the five day Friends Life Women’s Tour will see some of the world’s best cyclists race from Braintree to Clacton on June 18.

The locations, announced today, are Thorrington, Kirby-le-Soken and Great Bentley.

Organisers say there is likely to be a significant concentration of spectators attracted to each of the venues.

The hotly-contested climb will take place at Thorrington’s Tenpenny Hill and the sprints will takes place in Elm Tree Avenue, Kirby-le-Soken and in Weeley Road in Great Bentley.

The race will see a total of 16 teams from nine different countries take part, including 12 of the world’s top 15 ranked teams, led by the team of defending champion Marianne Vos, Rabo Liv.

Stage two will start from Braintree’s Market Place at 10am and is expected to finish at around 2pm on Clacton’s Marine Parade East.

Highlights of the event will be shown on ITV4 in the evening following the race. 

For the full story see Thursday's Clacton and Frinton Gazette