When Tour of Britain came to Bradford.
The good people of Bradford on Avon gather, slowly emerging from homes, offices and shops. Casual anticipation fills the air as the Tour of Britain draws near.
Luminous coppers chat to buggy-pushing mothers while college girls joke of selfies with Bradley. The much-crossed bridge enjoys a rare moment of still as the Tour of Britain climbs closer... up Winsley Hill.
A helicopter herald announces imminent arrival, pinpointing leaders and broadcasting Wiltshire splendour. Outriders revel in a cavalcade of sound as the Tour of Britain plunges into town.
Cameras ready, necks craned and toes tipped. A riverside throng embraces the breakaway with cheers. The colourful snake hisses, teeth-bared effort on every face as the Tour of Britain flashes past, radiating heat from the race.
A minute of uncertain quiet, before the field arrive in eager pursuit , cars and officials follow – latecomers to this September party.T hen it’s over, with “cheers Roger” and “see you later Don” as the Tour of Britain leaves for Trowbridge and on.
By Ben Johnson
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