Chief Minister Tony Brown MHK has extended his congratulations to Mark Cavendish following his success in Sunday’s final stage of the 2009 Tour de France.

The Manx cyclist sprinted to a famous victory along the Champs Elysees to add to his five previous stage wins in this year’s event.

The Chief Minister said ‘The whole Island, and many further afield, are very proud of Mark Cavendish’s six stage wins.

'It is a truly wonderful achievement, especially Sunday’s triumph in the final stage on the Champs Elysees.

'It was an absolutely fantastic win and we share in his joy.’

Cavendish is now acknowledged as the fastest sprinter in the world and demonstrated that fact once again by powering away from the rest of the field in Paris.

The Chief Minister added ‘Mark is the first Manxman and Briton to win the Champs Elysees stage and we are all thrilled by his outstanding achievements.

‘I extend, on behalf of the people of the Isle of Man, our heartfelt congratulations to Mark and also to his family and friends.’