Crowds gathered to cheer on some of the world’s greatest cyclists racing in the Tour of Britain.
Fans lined the road as cyclists came whizzing past, with some blowing whistles and horns.
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 Lancashire and Bolton just after 2pm.
Cyclists faced The Rake as riders in the UK’s biggest professional cycle race, tackled what is one of the toughest hill climbs in the country.
Cyclists entered Bolton just after 2.30pm today along Blackburn Road, before riding into Egerton and turning right onto Longworth Road towards Belmont.
They were still going strong after already racing 97.5 kilometres.
Ward councillor Cllr Sam Connor said: “It was very exciting and a privilege to witness them right on our doorstep through the village and seeing the crowds turn out to support them, which highlights the sense of community.
“It’s good to get Egerton on the map and to show this is part of Bolton, and this is what Bolton looks like, which is a good way to promote our village and be proud of where we live.”
Supporters also set up camping chairs on Rivington Road, close to Belmont as they soaked in the sun to watch the moment.
Cllr Nadim Muslim added: “I think it’s really good for Egerton and for people to come and see this.
“We obviously have a big community spirit here in Egerton, and I think when we have events, we always get a really good turnout.
“And people are really supportive of the contestants and people participating in these events.
“I think we will always continue to that and as a community we champion anyone who wants to have a more active life.”
The skilled athletes braved their way up Rivington Road before descending to Rivington and through Grimeford village and the outskirts of Blackrod.
More than a dozen police bikes accompanied the rides.
Other notable points for supporters to cheer from included Black Bull pub, the Chetham Arms in Turton, Ciao Baby restaurant and Delph Sailing Club in Egerton.
Fans could also see the event unfold from The Cherry Tree pub in Blackrod, The Black Dog pub and the view on Sheep House Lane, Rivington Village Green Tea Room, and Rivington Café.
Among the riders who were racing are the previous two Tour of Britain champions Gonzalo Serrano (2022) and Wout van Aert (2021).
Fans gathered to watch the action of the opening stage live on ITV4 from the moment racing began in Altrincham at 11.45am.
The Tour of Britain will finish in South Wales on Sunday September 10.
Following the Greater Manchester stage the riders will race through Wrexham, East Riding of Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, Suffolk, Essex, and Gloucestershire, creating an unforgettable sporting spectacle.
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