The Tour of Britain's impending visit to Norfolk and Suffolk has been hailed as a boost for fitness, tourism and the countys' profile as a group of cyclists got a taste of the route.
Yesterday, a select group of riders snaked through the countryside between East Harling and Elveden on a section of the same route the race will take on September 12.
The day's racing will be the penultimate day of the tour, before a grand finale in London the following day.
Olympic gold medallist Sir Bradley Wiggins is among those confirmed to be taking part in the prestigious event.
And yesterday's teaser event saw members of Active Norfolk and Suffolk and Norfolk County Councils anticipating a boost to the county's health and coffers.
Ben Jones, director of Active Norfolk, was among those taking part in the ride.
He said: 'It raises the profile of sport and physical activity, and the popularity of cycling has grown so much, and we want to capitalise on it.
'I think the line-up for this year's tour is the strongest its ever been and people can expect a world class level of sport.'
Also on the route was Hilary Cox, Norfolk County Council's champion for cycling and walking.
She said the tour was a mouthwatering prospect for fans and businesses alike.
'It brings a huge amount of interest and passion to Norfolk, but I would also like to see it bring out how important fitness is.
'You don't need to be a speed machine to get fit, you can just go and enjoy the ride,' she said.
With one hundred riders competing, more than 150,000 spectators are expected to turn out to see the race take place.
The day's racing will start at Fakenham, with riders heading through Reepham, Aylsham, Norwich, Wymondham, Attleborough and Thetford before leaving the county.
Among those taking part will be professional rider Dexter Gardias, a member of One Pro Cycling.
He said Norfolk could pose a tough challenge for the riders.
'It seems fairly flat but we can't underestimate it because the stage could be really hard because the weather plays a big part.
'It's the penultimate stage, so depending on what the standings are, it could be a key part of the race,' he said.
Young people across the Breckland area have been supporting the event by taking part in a Bike Art in recent weeks.
The events saw children turning discarded bikes into works of art to be displayed on the Tour's route as it passes through towns.
Do you think the Tour is good news for Norfolk and Suffolk? Let us know by emailing andrew.fitchett@archant.co.uk
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