TWO major cycling events in the Borders brought a windfall of almost £1.7m to the region, according to figures released this month.

The financial boost came as competitors travelled from all over the world to take part in TweedLove in May and Tour O’ The Borders three months later.

The direct economic impact of TweedLove was £1,486,699 according to the figures compiled by Frontline Research who were commissioned by Scottish Borders Council. For the Tour O’ The Borders the figure was £191,836.

The two festivals were both based around Peebles and enhanced the area’s reputation as one of the UK’s top cycling destinations.

The events received support from EventScotland and Scottish Borders Council and were organised by local firm Hillside Outside which specialises in cycling and outdoor events.

“We’re delighted with this level of success,” said company director Neil Dalgleish. “The events have been recognised as a success at an international level, and visitors have gone home very impressed with our bike trails and our incredible cycling community. There’s something really special happening here.” The firm has taken on additional staff to manage its expanding events roster, but emphasise the importance of volunteers. “We’re extremely proud of these events,” said Mr Dalgleish. “We don’t have big budgets and so many people here put in so much effort to make it all work. We can stand shoulder to shoulder with some of the world’s top bike events and destinations now, and that’s down to a big community effort.” The local enthusiasm for cycling is being noticed internationally, with the area being held up as an example of how an active community can have significant social, cultural and other benefits.

Tweeddale East councillor Stuart Bell, Scottish Borders Council Executive Member for Economic Development, said: “Not only do events such as Tour o’ the Borders attract local, Scottish and UK cycling enthusiasts out for a day’s ride but they also showcase our region as a top cycling destination for road cycling as well as mountain biking. These events project a strong message that the Scottish Borders is a great place to visit and have fun. Well done to the organisers.” TweedLove Bike Festival will run from May 17 to 31 next year with the Tour O’ The Borders, a closed road sportive event, to be held on August 9.