THOUSANDS of visitors are Borders-bound for the biggest mass-participation sports event in the region, - which will kicks off from Peebles on Sunday, August 7.

Now in its sixth year, the Tour O The Borders has mirrored the success of TweedLove Bike Festival to become one of the country’s biggest road cycling events.

Staging the event is a huge operation requiring well over 100 staff, crew and volunteers. And with only two weeks to go, the organisers – Peebles based Hillside Outside Ltd, of Peebles – are keen to recruit more local helpers for the big day.

Event director Neil Dalgleish said: “This is such a huge event and it really wouldn’t be able to go ahead without the amazing volunteers that come forward every year.

"And as it’s just around the corner, we’re inviting anyone who would like to help out on the day to get in touch. It really is fantastic fun for everyone involved.”

Up to 2,500 riders are expected to take part in the closed-road event, over a course which one of the UK’s top cycling magazines recently described as ‘one of the best routes they’d ever ridden in the UK.’

The event has also attracted support from some of the biggest names in the cycling industry, with US-based manufacturers Cannondale joining global Scottish success Endura and UK retail chain Edinburgh Bicycle as event partners. 

Mechanical support will be provided by the giant Japanese-based company Shimano, one of the world’s biggest cycle industry brands.

For this year, Officials from Shimano’s Japanese HQ will also be making the long trip to Peebles for the event.

“It’s fantastic to see this response to the Tour. It just goes to prove the quality of our event, and that this area truly is the best cycling destination in the UK,” said Neil.

“Providing a safe and fun event for all the riders is our number one priority,” he added. “But we need a big team to make it possible.

“It’s a great chance to be part of one of the most exciting events in the Borders’ calendar, and getting involved is easy – and everyone gets their expenses refunded, too. 

“We really need your help, and all the riders are hugely appreciative of the local involvement – there’s a huge feel-good factor on the day.”

Sponsors Tesco Bank’s Adele Mills added: “Large-scale events such as this simply cannot function without the support and dedication of volunteers – they’re invaluable to making it a success. 

“This is therefore a fantastic opportunity to get some hands-on experience, and have fun while helping raise money for charity. 

“We’d love you to help make it the best day it can be.”

Anyone who is interested shouldplease contact info@tourotheborders.com, or phone 01721 588050.