Hundreds of people lined The Rake in Ramsbottom as riders in the UK’s biggest professional cycle race, the Tour of Britain, tackled what is one of the toughest hill climbs in the country.
Stage one of the race got underway today when the region staged the "grand depart".
Tour of Britain started in Altrincham with cyclists riding through Holcombe just after 2pm.
Stage one featured two designated "King of the Mountain" climbs - a category one challenge at The Rake and a category two challenge at Grains Bar in Oldham.
The Tour last visited the Bury area in September 2019 and for the first time back in 2004.
Locals started to arrive in Holcombe Village as early as 9am with some setting up their own picnic.
Hundreds lined the route along The Rake cheering on the cyclists, the highlight of the route and one of the toughest hill climbs in the country.
As a welcome to the cyclists, a steam train sounded its whistle as they approach the East Lancashire Railway level crossing at Bridge Street and local businesses will be theming their window displays to mark the day.
Cyclists left the borough via Hawkshaw towards Edgworth and into Bolton and East Lancashire
At Bridge Street Gardens, a free family fun day took place, offering a variety of activities for all ages, learn to cycle sessions led by the National Cycling Academy, and bike repairs.
The climb is only 875 metres long the challenge is in its steepness, reaching a maximum gradient of 22 per cent (one in 4.8).
The 2023 Tour of Britain takes place over eight stages around the UK between today and Sunday, September 10.
Pictures by Phil Taylor
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