CROWDS gathered in Bolton to welcome cyclists taking part in this year's Tour of Britain.

Cyclists entered the town at around 1.20pm to be greeted by hundreds of people lining the route.

And there was no doubt which town the cyclists had entered.

The Bolton News:

For 50 Walmsley CE Primary School pupils wearing T-shirts spelling out Bolton welcomed them.

And spectators waved Bolton flags as cyclists come past and there was a festival atmosphere with activities taking place along the route.

The Bolton News:

The tour of Britain started its final stage at 11am to take in all 10 of the Greater Manchester boroughs, starting Altrincham to finish in Deansgate in Manchester..

The Bolton News:

Leader of Bolton Council Cllr David Greenhalgh, said: "The Tour of Britain has brought a real sense of pride and community spirit, celebrating the best of Bolton.

"There were people lining the streets across the borough supporting this great sporting event.”

Cllr Greenhalgh, who was supporting the cyclists as they came through his constituency, added: "Just a huge thank you to everyone in this community who turned out in force.

"There were hundreds of people on the streets waving them on, it was a great atmosphere and what these elite athletes absolutely deserve.

"And what a wonderful once in a lifetime experience for us all to share and thank you to everyone who has turned out to make it a really special day."