SOME of the world's top professional cyclists, including Sir Bradley Wiggins, will be whizzing through Knowsley Safari Park and Prescot again this September.

The Tour of Britain will return to Knowsley for the third consecutive year on Monday, September 8.

More than 100 cyclists will depart from the safari park at the start of stage two and travel through parts of the borough, including Prescot town centres, where spectators were thrilled to see the former Tour De France Champion ride last year.

The stage, which covers 201 km, finishes later in the day at Llandudno in north Wales.

Visitors wishing to go along and support the cyclists' set off, can enjoy activities tat the park before and after the race, including a cycling village and various shows.

Those not visiting the Safari Park itself are encouraged to get involved by lining the route and cheering on the competitors as they race through the borough.

Cllr Eddie Connor, Knowsley's cabinet member for leisure, community and culture, said: "We hope residents, schools, community groups and businesses will really get behind by giving the riders a great send off ."

If watching the cyclists in action leaves spectators inspired to dust off their own bikes, they will find lots of cycling opportunities in Knowsley. The 'Sky Rides' programme offers guided bike rides with a trained leader around pre-planned routes or, for those inspired to learn to ride or needing support to get back in the saddle, there are 'Pedal Away' sessions. Alternatively, there are track or BMX open sessions at Knowsley’s BMX and Velodrome at the Leisure and Culture Park.

The race starts at the Safari Park at 10.15am with the last entry to the park at 9.45am. The Safari Park will re-open for its usual business after the race has departed. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the teams before the race begins, up until around 10am.

The Tour of Britain, which was won last year by Sir Bradley Wiggins, goes on until September 14 and will be televised live on ITV4.

For information about the race, including details of the route, visit the website tourofbritain.co.uk.