RIDERS in the Prutour, Britain's biggest international cyclist race, were being cheered into York today by thousands of spectators and TV personality Michaela Strachan.

Britain's Olympic cyclist Chris Boardman won yesterday's stage from Edinburgh to Newcastle. He and his fellow riders were pedalling 105 miles, including the steep climb up Rosedale Chimney, before arriving in the city at around 2pm.

The entertainment had been going on for hours before the first cyclist sprinted across the Malton Road finishing line. Michaela was due to be on hand to encourage young cyclists taking part in an obstacle race.

She was presenting prizes to the Prutour champions, including the stage winner and the king of the mountains.

The race, one of the top five in Europe with prize monies of more than £100,000, attracted cycling's elite riders including major stars of the Tour de France, and drew crowds of around 5,000 to the city.

For more information call (01904) 553410 for a 24-hour recorded message.l Stage report: Sports pull-out

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