ORGANISERS are calling on the Borders public to support the Tour of Britain by volunteering as a Race Maker.

Next month, the UK’s biggest free to spectate event will be arriving in the Borders for a full day of cycling action.

Stage two of OVO Energy Tour of Britain will begin and end in Kelso and local volunteers are being called upon.

No training is required, and all Race Makers will get a briefing on the day and receive a free gift.

Several volunteering opportunities are available including assisting at the Stage Two start and finish in Kelso.

Councillor Mark Rowley, Scottish Borders Council’s Executive Member for Business and Economic Development, added: “This is a great opportunity to become a Race Maker for the day and not only get up close to the action but help to ensure a safe and successful event for both the riders and all the spectators.

“It would be great to have local people in these roles as their local knowledge will be invaluable, especially in directing spectators and visitors in Kelso and elsewhere on the route to not only the best locations but also to the many visitor attractions, shops, cafes and restaurants in the area.”

The Scottish Borders stage will start in Kelso town centre, travel along the A698 to Coldstream before passing through Lennel en-route to Paxton.

From there it will take the riders west, taking in Chirnside and Preston. Cutting across from Ellemford to Longformacus, the race will then drop down into Duns and pass through Gavinton and Westruther.

Gordon, Smailholm and then Clintmains all feature on the route before the climb to Scott’s View and descent to the foot of Leaderfoot viaduct.

After passing through Gattonside, the riders will turn in to Melrose and climb Dingleton Hill before a fast run through Maxton to the finish line back in Kelso.

ITV4 will once again screen live free-to-air coverage from start to finish of each stage in the UK, along with a nightly highlights programme of the best of the action.

The OVO Energy Tour of Britain begins in Glasgow’s George Square on Saturday, September 7.

And finishes eight days later in Manchester city centre on Saturday September 14.

Mick Bennett, Race Director said: “Without our wonderful Race Makers we simply would not be able to deliver the OVO Energy Tour of Britain on its current scale.

“Each year they help us to deliver a memorable event and ensure that our spectators leave with a smile.”

Anyone interested in volunteering for the Race Maker programme for the Scottish Borders stage on Sunday September 8 can do so on the official website.

For more information and an online registration form visit www.tourofbritain.co.uk/community/volunteer