Andrei Burton in line-up to mark Tour of Britain’s visit to Honiton. Packed programme of events taking place over three days.

AN elite stunt cyclist, ranked sixth in the world, will be performing in Honiton - to mark the Tour of Britain’s passage through the town.

Andrei Burton, a trial bike professional, will give a demonstration of his skills at Honiton Sport Centre on Saturday, September 11.

The event is just one of a string of celebrations planned.

Taking place over three days, a festival has been organised to fall between the Tour of Britain Charity Rides, on September 5, and the actual Tour, on September 14.

“Although the race will pass through the town within an hour, there is much to celebratre about this annual sporting challenge that encompasses so much about sport and the challenges it offers us as individuals,” said Tim Raphael, of Cycle, who has been spearheading efforts to mark the Tour’s visit to Honiton.

“To highlight the Tour, Honiton Cycling Club and Honiton Running Club are staging a series of events on September 11 and 12 to offer people the chance to try out sports.”

Mr Raphael says there will be something for everyone, from the keen cyclist who wants to experience the Tour route, to those who just want to try a sport for the first time.

“There will be experienced cyclists and runners to offer advice and help about every aspect of the sports,” he said.

“The sports will come together on Sunday, September 12, when people can enter a fun duathlon and challenge themselves to a two-and-half-mile run and a 10 mile cycle ride.” Full details can be viewed at www.sport4honiton.org

The weekend events will take place at Honiton Sports Centre, where therapist Amanda Bleazard is staging a health and wellbeing day on Sunday, September 12.

Taster sessions will be availabvle in osteopathy, massage, reflexology, healing and hypnotherapy, to name but a few.

Advice on diet and nutrition will also be available.

Stalls and a draw will accompany demonstrations in gymnastics, kindergym and martial arts in the main hall. Fifty per cent of Amanda’s takings will be donated to Parkinson’s UK and the local Parkinson’s group.

Anybody wishing to take a dip at Honiton Swimming Pool will be able to take advantage of a Swim4Free offer, courtesy of Leisure East Devon, from 10am to 2pm on the same day. Local cyclists can take part in the Tour of Britain Charity Rides. For full information on all of the sportingevents, visit www.sport4honiton.org

STREET entertainment will be provided by Honiton’s multi-award winning Boogie Bass Bugs on the day the Tour passes through the town, Tuesday, September 14.

Selected traders will be offering discounts on this day only. Look out for promotional leaflets.

Events are supported by Honiton Town Council and Honiton and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry.