The Borders hosted the first stage of the Men’s Tour of Britain yesterday.

Stage one of the race started and ended in Kelso following a 181.9km route within the Borders with French rider Paul Magnier winning the stage.

Peebles cyclist Callum Thornley lead for much of the day taking the King of the Mountains jersey and the Combativity Award.

The route included two climbs at Scott’s View, a double ascent climb at Dingleton and two sprints in Melrose.

Yesterday’s stage was the tenth time in 15 years the area has held a stage as part of the Tour of Britain.  

Last year the world cycling’s governing body recognised the South of Scotland as a UCI Bike Region, due to the commitment to cycling.

Peter Moore, chief executive of NHS Borders, said: “Stage 1 of the Tour of Britain starting and finishing in Kelso was a fantastic opportunity to get out with friends and family and be inspired by the athletes.

“Whether you are a keen cyclist who went to watch the Tour or haven’t been on a bike since you were a child, why not take this chance to get back into cycling and harness all the benefits of exercise to your physical and mental health.

“The Borders has so many great opportunities for cycling, both for getting around and for enjoying a day out.”

Councillor Scott Hamilton, added: “It has been wonderful to see, once again, the Scottish Borders embrace an international-level event and rise to the occasion of playing host to some of the world’s best cyclists.

“The activities in Kelso and Melrose throughout the day kept large numbers of spectators entertained, and it was great to see so many people out on the roadside in communities all along the route.

“The event in previous years has provided a significant economic boost to local businesses and I have no doubt that will be the case again this year.

"That is one of the drivers for us investing in the event, along with the worldwide exposure it provides for the region, and it also helps to strengthen the South of Scotland’s reputation as Scotland’s leading cycling destination. I’d like to acknowledge the support of EventScotland in bringing the event back to the Borders too.