A CUMBRIAN physiotherapist has been selected to play a vital support role in the upcoming Tour of Britain cycle race, helping high performance riders with their tired and aching limbs.

Janet Smedley, resident physiotherapist at Low Wood Club in Windermere, will be on the finish line of the gruelling fifth stage of the event when it crosses the Pennines and visits the county on Thursday.

The stage takes in the Lake District National Park around Ullswater before the final climb of eight kilometres to the summit finish on Hartside Fell above Penrith.

Amongst the global names taking part, Britain’s first Tour de France winner Bradley Wiggins will lead his own team this year, with sprint champion Mark Cavendish spearheading Etixx Quick Step’s team.

Janet, who has been practising at Low Wood Club for over eighteen years, has developed specific physio skills for cyclists, including a programme of rehabilitation to re-build their physical strength, stamina and confidence.

“The Tour of Britain is a great springboard for national talent and it’s a fantastic opportunity to get involved,” said Janet.

“The stage covers 166.2 kilometres with a total ascent of 2,838 metres. My role will primarily be to give advice on muscle stretching and strapping, assist with diagnosis and treatment of minor injuries and provide manual physiotherapy where required. It’s crucial that the riders get the right treatment in readiness to compete again on successive days.”

Tim Berry, leisure director from English Lakes Hotels Resorts & Venues said: “We’re very proud that Janet has been asked to lend an expert pair of hands in such a prestigious sporting event – it’s testament to her level of experience and passion for helping teams and individuals perform at their best.”

The annual Tour of Britain race starts on Sunday from Beaumaris in Wales, with the cyclists crossing the finish line in Regents Street, London, next Sunday.