Cambridge will host a leg of the Tour de France when the race takes place in July 2014, it was announced today. The first three stages of the race – the Grand Depart – traditionally take place outside France every other year, and this year Cambridge will be the host of the third stage which starts in Leeds and finishes in London.

The MP for Cambridge, Julian Huppert, who is himself a keen cyclist, has also been made vice-chairman of the all-party parliamentary group organising the UK Tour de France. Speaking to Cambridge News, Huppert expressed his delight that the city will get to experience the famous cycle race. “It’s an excellent opportunity for Britain’s premier cycling city and a great way to continue the thrill of the Olympics.”

Councillor Tim Bick, leader of Cambridge City Council, echoed his sentiments, saying "Cycling is in Cambridge's heart and soul from the students who cycle to our historic colleges to the workers who ensure the city leads the country in technology, science and innovation. This is why I am sure we are all excited by today's great news that Cambridge will be hosting the start of stage three of the Tour de France 2014.”

Tour de France organisers, Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO) have announced the world-famous race will start in Cambridge before travelling through Essex towards Epping Forest. The route will then take in the London boroughs of Tower Hamlets and Westminster, before reaching the finishing line at The Mall. After Bradley Wiggins’s win in the 2012 Tour, ASO have made no secret of the fact that they are deliberately hosting the race in Britain knowing it will draw crowds from across the country.