Mansfield will welcome the OVO Energy Tour of Britain on Wednesday, 6 September.

People can get involved by going to the Big Welcome event in Mansfield Market Place on Tuesday, 5 September from 10am.

The event, organised by Mansfield District Council, will feature a BMX display, have-a-go cycling sessions, the Mansfield 103.2 roadshow, street performers, music and a craft marquee, where visitors can make shakers to make some noise at the race itself.

On the big day – Wednesday, 6 September – people can meet some of the world’s 120 top cyclists, get autographs and close-up photos before the race starts from the Market Place at around 10.45am. There will also be music and entertainment.

Residents and visitors are then asked to line the route and make as much noise as possible as the race makes its way along a 6km route through the town – up Leeming Street and along Chesterfield Road, Rosemary Street, Nottingham Road, Atkin Lane and Sheepbridge Lane to the A38.

The event, which is the biggest free-to-watch event in the UK and is broadcast live to 17 million homes worldwide, is likely to attract thousands of spectators to the town.

Businesses can make the most of the extra visitors and national and international media coverage the event attracts by supporting the town and taking advantage of one of several sponsorship opportunities.

People can decorate their windows, homes, gardens or business premises and be in with a chance of winning a prize for best dressed house or business. Follow the council’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/mymansfielduk for more information.

Residents can also show their support by displaying a ToB window sticker and poster, which will soon be available for free from Mansfield 2020, Mansfield Museum, the Civic Centre or Mansfield BID.

Coun Dave Saunders, portfolio holder for regeneration and growth, said: “We’re gearing up to welcome the Tour of Britain 2017 and want to encourage businesses and residents to get involved and help us put Mansfield on the map. We’re anticipating big crowds and lots of positive media coverage for Mansfield. Go online to find out more.”