A farmer's market and a host of cycle-related events will greet riders and spectators when this year's Tour of Britain rolls into Norfolk.

Tens of thousands are expected to line the streets for the penultimate stage of the race on Saturday, September 17.

Riders will set off from Bury St Edmunds and race through 60 miles of Suffolk countryside, before a further 60 miles through Norfolk, before finising on the Royal Estate at Sandringham.

It's not clear whether any member of the Royal Family will be there to welcome riders.

Roger Partridge, sports development officer with West Norfolk council, said: 'West Norfolk came out in force last year to support the race and we're expecting an even bigger turnout this year as this stage takes place on a Saturday.

'We're planning a whole host of activities in Sandringham, ranging from cycling events through to arts and crafts activities, and we want to create the atmosphere of a village fete.

'We hope people will come along and make a day of it and cheer the riders on as they cross the finish line.'

Plans in the pipeline include the return of March Vintage Bike Club, village sports roadshow activities including beat-the-goalie, climbing wall, street dance demos and parkour displays; Go Ride racing, cycle sprints and a led cycle ride from King's Lynn to Sandringham.

Elizabeth Nockolds, West Norfolk's cabinet member for external relations, said: 'We're absolutely delighted that the Tour of Britain is coming to West Norfolk for a second time.

'I'm a keen cyclist and know the benefits that cycling can bring and West Norfolk is the ideal location for cycling as have a great network of cycle paths and some beautiful countryside.

'This event really inspires people to give cycling a go, and with increased pressure on people's budgets, it could also encourage people to choose cycling as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly means of transport.'

The race is due to finish at around 3pm on September 17. Activities will start at 11am and will conclude around 5pm.

Bringing the Tour of Britain to Norfolk and Suffolk has been made possible thanks to sponsorship from Southwold-based Adnams and funding from West Norfolk and other councils.