EFFORTS to keep the Pearl Izumi Tour Series bike race in Redditch are already underway after Tuesday night’s stunning night of drama and excitement.
After four successful years in the town, which showcases it on national television, the event desperately needs more backing and sponsorship if it is to continue.
Local MP Karen Lumley said she is anxious for Redditch to retain the event and was anxious to bring business leaders and the county council together to find the funding sooner rather than later.
“I absolutely loved it and it’s important that we plan far in advance so that we can get everything ready and put in place,” said Mrs Lumley, who came back specially from London to be at the event.
“There were a lot of business leaders in the VIP area and I’m sure they would be prepared to chip in to retain something like this.”
As a result the retention of the Redditch leg of the Tour Series, which showcases the town on national television, will be on the agenda of her monthly business meeting on June 5 in a bid to drive the issue forward.
Ken Williams, manager of the Kingisher Shopping Centre which helped sponsor the event, said it had been excellent for Redditch with an estimated 3,500 extra visitors going through the Kingfisher alone.
“It is the Redditch showcase event, it’s good for the town and we are delighted to have been a sponsor.
“The feedback has been incredibly positive, and it’s convincing people who were first time visitors to the town that Redditch is a visitor friendly town.
“And the benefits for businesses come from not only what happens on the day but the it’s the halo effect, enhancing our reputation and bringing people back here again.”
