COMMUNITY groups, parish councils, schools and businesses in Eden are being invited to attend an information evening to discuss and discover more about how they can take advantage of the Aviva Tour of Britain coming through the area.

On Thursday September 10, stage five of the Aviva Tour of Britain passes from Brampton down the Eden Valley then into the Lake District National Park, running alongside Ullswater. After passing through Penrith, the race will head through Melmerby before an eight kilometre climb to a spectacular sporting finish at the top of Hartside Pass.

The meeting is taking place at North Lakes Hotel, Penrith in the Voreda Suite on Tuesday 2 June at 7pm.

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Last time the Tour was in Cumbria in 2013, an economic impact study showed that it brought in more than £4m to the local economy. The finish at Kendal brought in more thanr £500,000 to that area alone.

Eden District Council's Communities Director, Ruth Atkinson, said: “The momentum for the Aviva Tour of Britain coming to Eden is building a pace. We have already seen with the Olympic Torch Relay and Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in recent years how our vibrant communities really get behind special events like these.

“Stage five of the race is passing through some of the most iconic and stunning parts of our district, so this is a real opportunity for schools, parish councils, community groups and businesses to get involved and take advantage of this unique opportunity and help show off our beautiful area to a worldwide audience.”

The agenda for the information event will include, practical information about road closures, car parking and facilities; how businesses, communities and schools might benefit from the event; use of the Tour of Britain logo, marketing materials and images; encouraging new and repeat visitors to base themselves in Eden to watch both Cumbria stages of the race and explore Eden and using special offers and marketing packages to add value.

Staff from Eden District Council, Cumbria County Council and colleagues will be on hand to provide practical information, highlight the opportunities for businesses, community groups, schools and parish councils and to answer questions and listen to your ideas.

If you are planning on coming along to the event, can you please confirm your attendance by emailing Emily Bond, Business Marketing Officer  emily.bond@eden.gov.uk , telephone 01768 212139 or Sally Hemsley, Communities Officer email: sallye.hemsley@eden.gov.uk , telephone 01768 212483.