WORLD class cyclists from around the world travelled through Monmouthshire yesterday on stage five of the Tour of Britain.

Entering the county at Mamhilad, cyclists followed the A472 through Usk and then through Gwernesney, Llansoy, Trellech and Tintern before leaving Monmouthshire at Bigsweir Bridge near Llandogo.

The stage was won by New Zealand athlete Jack Bauer who put in an all action display to win with a dramatic finish on the Royal Avenue in Bath as the peloton caught the break at the line.

The victory, his first individual win since breaking his leg 14 months ago at the Tour de France, came at the end of a hard 127-mile stage from Aberdare.

The Kiwi was part of a five rider break who survived until the final dash for the line, with Bauer and breakaway companions Amael Moinard and Erick Rowsell taking the 1-2-3 in Victoria Park, ahead of Caleb Ewan and stage four winner Dylan Groenewegen.

Cyclists from the county and further afield travelled to watch the race and cheer the cyclists on. Monmouthshire County Council leader, Peter Fox was among those enjoying the event. He said: “Having previously hosted a stage of the Tour of Britain, we know the value it adds economically and socially and therefore, once again, we welcome its passage through the beautiful county of Monmouthshire.” 

Stage six today sees the peloton head to Devon for a stage from Sidmouth to Haytor in the Dartmoor National Park, which culminates with a summit finish atop a five-kilometre climb.

Highlights for the Tour of Britain are being shown on ITV4 at 8pm.