Cornwall will have its fastest-moving and longest-distance entertainment ever as the Tour of Britain cyclists prepare to eat up the miles.

From the very first firework above Penzance Harbour on Saturday evening to the last puff of a Bodmin steam train on Sunday - expect a weekend of surprises as Cornwall’s creative neighbourhoods put on various shows to keep pace with one of the UK’s largest free sporting events.

The Tour of Britain prestige cycle race is beginning its eight-day journey to Scotland through 111 miles of Cornwall, and the Duchy's villages, towns and city are planning to give the global TV audience something extra to see and hear.

Cllr Stephen Rushworth, who has overseen the Tour of Britain planning for Cornwall Council’s Cabinet, said: "This may not quite be on the scale of the Tokyo Olympics, but it its way Cornwall is putting just as much energy and effort into marking this great sporting occasion.

"Whether or not the sport of cycling makes your heart race, there will be plenty of other action and entertainment to enjoy along the way."

Read Next:

Visitors are also being asked bear in mind that neither town has capacity for much inbound traffic.

Those attending the event in Penzance on Sunday are being asked to use the Marazion car parks, from where they can walk or cycle on the level coast path into Penzance, or use a local bus service.

Viewers heading to Bodmin on Saturday or Sunday have the opportunity to park at Bodmin Parkway Station, where parking fees apply, then use the Bodmin & Wenford Railway for no charge.

The railway will then take passengers into town near the race finish line.

Up to five round trip services will be on each day.

The free train seats have been sponsored by Cornwall plant-based treats makers Butterm!lk.

For Bodmin on Sunday only, follow signs off the A38 roundabout beside Glynn Valley Crematorium (towards Lanhydrock) for free car parking, and a 10 minute frequency bus service from 10.00 am.

The last bus back from Omaha Road is at 17.58 with fares at £2 single and £4 family.