Tour of Britain comes to Lochmaben

A special thanks to the Lochmaben Initiative and Tom Russell for preserving this piece of local heritage.

The Tour of Britain 2012 was the ninth edition of the modern Tour of Britain cycling race. It took place from September 9 to 16, 2012. The race is a multi-stage cycling event held in the United Kingdom and is part of the UCI (Union Cycliste Internationale) Europe Tour. In 2012, the race consisted of eight stages, covering a total distance of approximately 1,349 kilometres.

The overall winner of the Tour of Britain 2012 was Jonathan Tiernan-Locke, a British cyclist riding for the Endura Racing team. He secured his victory by showcasing strong performances in various stages of the race. The Tour of Britain attracts both professional cyclists and cycling enthusiasts, and each stage often offers scenic routes through different parts of the UK.

Announcer’s vehicle in Bruce Street

Running ahead of the Police motorcyclist the announcer’s vehicle provides a running commentary to the public as it passes through

Police Motorcycle in advance of the Peloton

It is important to recognise that these sorts of events could not happen without the support of many local people and agencies. The Police ensure the safe passage of the riders throughout while the Council and the Community Council all work to support safe and enjoyable events for the public to see.

Peloton approaching Barras Lochmaben

Backup vehicles waiting on Princes Street

The lead rider enters Bruce Street



11 September 2012 – Jedburgh to Dumfries, 152.6 km (94.8 mi) entering Annandale on the Selkirk Road passing the Grey Mare’s Tail. The two final sprints were contested at 107 km (66.5 mi) and 122 km (75.8 mi) respectively, at Lochmaben and Whitesands in Dumfries.

Following a finishing loop of around 30 km (18.6 mi) in length,[24] the finish of the stage itself was contested on Whitesands for the second successive year; Mark Cavendish led home HTC–Highroad team-mate Mark Renshaw in a 1–2 finish in the race-opening stage, in 2011.

Peloton lead enters Bruce Street among them is Bradley Wiggins

Bradley Wiggins is a retired British professional road and track cyclist. Born on April 28, 1980, in Ghent, Belgium, he is renowned for his achievements in both disciplines. Wiggins enjoyed a successful career, with his most notable accomplishments including winning the Tour de France in 2012, becoming the first British rider to achieve this feat. He also claimed multiple Olympic medals, including gold in the individual pursuit and team pursuit events. His diverse talents earned him recognition as a versatile and accomplished cyclist, with a significant impact on British cycling’s resurgence on the international stage.

The final rider passes the support vehicles

Once the end of the peloton passes the support vehicles follow them out of town

The peloton is on its way out of Lochmaben – a brief but interesting visit!

Feeling inspired – Try Lochmaben’s Cycling Routes

Tour of Britain 2012 – Stage 3 Route