THOUSANDS of spectators lined the streets  of Halton today to watch some of the world’s top cyclists including Sir Bradley Wiggins and Mark Cavandish compete in the Tour of Britain.

Crowds cheered the cyclists as they rode through Widnes and Runcorn on day two of the UK’s biggest professional cycling race.

Halton Council leader Clr Rob Polhill said: “The tour’s visit to Halton was a fantastic occasion.

“It was great to have the likes of Sir Bradley Wiggins cycling through our borough.

“There were big crowds of people who came out to cheer on the cyclists at various spots including Cronton, Wade Deacon, Kingsway, the bridge, and the Spur Road.

“Lots of children from our schools came along to watch, and the sport will help to promote the benefits of cycling.

 “Everything ran smoothly and we estimate around 5,000 people in total lined the route, residents and visitors from outside the borough.

“It was the first time we’ve hosted part of the Tour, but we hope to see it back again next year.

“I’d like to thank everyone in the council who has worked hard to make the event such a success, plus Cheshire Fire and Rescue, Cheshire Police, British Cycling, Silver Blades, Widnes Market, and Select Security for supporting us.”

Stage two which saw cyclists ride from Knowsley Safari Park  to Llandudno was won by Australian Mark Renshaw.

It finishes in London next Sunday.

Readers watching the race have posted comments on our Facebook page.

Jen Allford said: "Very exciting to see them all."

Caron Everett said:"They flew past us very fast. The amount of equipment and back up was a sight to see too."!

Cara Davies added: "I was at the spring outside Wade Deacon."

Rachael Maxwell said: "I was there to see them. It was fab."

Nikki Jackson said: "It was amazing sight."

Kim Thomas said: "Yeh was there, blink and you would of missed them."

Ian Jones added: "We were at Halton Lea shopping."