Everything you need to know about the OVO Energy Tour Series as it heads to Birkenhead

Taking place on Tuesday, May 21, the free event will feature both men's and women's races and will be the first time that Wirral has hosted the event as part of the Borough of Culture celebrations

Heading up the cycling teams will be Britain's most decorated Paralympian Sarah Storey and three-time Olympic champion Ed Clancy.

14-time Paralympic gold medallist and world champ Sarah will form part of the Storey Racing team who will contend for the overall women's title while Yorkshireman Ed heads up the men's series.

Race director Mick Bennett said: “We are delighted to be working with our partners at Wirral Council and are excited to have the opportunity to be a part of their plans for the year as Liverpool City Region Borough of Culture.

“The OVO Energy Tour Series will give cycling fans from across the North West of England the chance to see an action-packed day of cycling free of charge.

"We hope that the opportunity to witness this event in Wirral will inspire many more people to get on their bikes and be more active, but also to celebrate the culture of their home area.”

What is the OVO Energy Tour Series?

Launched in 2009, the OVO Energy Tour Series is a fast and free cycling event which takes place in towns and city centres across the UK each May.

It sees Britain's best male and female riders battle it out in a unique, team-based format as part of a full day of community and sporting activities.

When does it start?

• 11.30am - Activities Start

• 1pm - Schools Activity

• 3.15pm - Amateur Race
• 5.30pm - Elite Women's Race
• 7pm - Elite Men's Race
• 8.30pm - Podium Celebrations

How can I watch the event?

You can line the streets around the OVO Energy Tour Series circuit in Birkenhead on May 21.

Highlights of the day will be screened on ITV4 and broadcast around the world.

Fans can even watch the action with lap-by-lap video updates and Facebook Live streams.

Where will the race take place?

The 1.3km circuit will race around three sides of Hamilton Square, also taking in Sandford Street, George Street, Taylor Street, Cleveland Street and Lord Street, with the finish on the south side of the square.

Will there be any road closures?

Temporary parking restrictions will also be in operation to prevent obstructive parking along the event route and any vehicles parked in or causing obstruction could be fined.

Who are the teams?

Men:

• Bikestrong-KTM
• Canyon dhb p/b Bloor Homes
• Madison Genesis
• Ribble Pro Cycling
• Saint Piran
• SwiftCarbon Pro Cycling
• Vitus Pro Cycling p/b Brother UK

Women:

• Brother UK – Tifosi p/b OnForm
• Datalynx - Parenesis Cycling
• Jadan Weldtite
• Liv AWOL SPOK’D
• Storey Racing
• Team Boompods
• Team Breeze
• VeloPerformance

How can I get to the event?

Visitors are urged to use public transport when they can due to high levels of traffic expected for the Tour Series.

• Rail

Hamilton Square station is a 2 minute walk away, with regular Merseyrail services to Hamilton Square from Liverpool, Chester and across Wirral. Plan your journey on the Merseyrail website or download the free Merseyrail app.

• Bus

Regular services run to Hamilton Square, operated by Arriva and Stagecoach. Please check with transport providers about alterations to these services due to road closures on event day.

• Bike:

Bikmo Cycle Insurance will be providing free bike parking, with a secure area manned during the event and no lock required.

• Car parking:

There are a number of parking facilities available within Birkenhead town centre which include accessible parking.

All facilities are in close proximity to the Tour Series event circuit. Race fans are advised to arrive early and follow town centre parking signage.

Access to and from car parks close to the circuit will be affected while road closures are in operation. Please check with individual car parks on arrival regarding the operational times of their car park on the day.

For more information about the OVO Energy Tour Series visit

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