The Department of Economic Development is working closely with British Cycling and Manx International Cycling to encourage local communities to show their support for the 2017 HSBC UK | National Road Championships later this month.

The Isle of Man will be hosting the British National Time Trial in St John’s on Thursday 22nd June and the Women’s and Men’s British National Road Race Championship events around the TT Course and Abbeylands Circuit on Sunday 25th June.

Laurence Skelly MHK, Minister for Economic Development, commented:

‘We are just over a week away from this fantastic event and the excitement is definitely building. This is a great opportunity to see the stars of the cycling world, with Mark Cavendish, Lizzie Deignan (nee Armitstead), Alex Dowsett, Peter Kennaugh and Hannah Barnes all set for a spectacular race on Manx roads.

‘The Island has an enviable reputation for hosting and supporting world-class events and I hope that the Manx public will join in the celebrations and represent our fantastic Island this June. In particular I’m looking forward to seeing a Tour de France size peloton riding through the Island’s towns and villages.’

Richard Fletcher, Chairman of the Isle of Man Cycling Association, commented:

‘Whether you run a business or your home is situated on the course, we want you to join in the celebration and support the riders as they race around the Isle of Man. The races will be covered in an ITV4 highlights programme, so it’s a fantastic opportunity to showcase the beauty of the Isle of Man and the passion and engagement of our people.’

Possible ways in which you can support the event:

-         Decorate your street or village
-         Cheer on the riders from the roadside
-         Dress in red and gold to show your support
-         Display the Manx flag where possible
-         Visit the Grandstand Race Village
-         Get social by sharing images and updates of the event using the hashtag #CyclingNation

For road closure details or more information, please visit www.manxinternational.com and follow www.twitter.com/RoadChamps for updates throughout the event.