The route for the 2021 Women's Tour time trial in Atherstone has been announced.

The six-stage race will visit Atherstone for the fourth time in seven years on October 6 for the race's first ever time trial.

With a nod to Britain rich time-trialling history the 10-mile course will see riders cycle an anti-clockwise loop whichpasses through Bentley, Birchley Heath, Mancetter before finishing in the heart of Atherstone.

Four of the Women's Tour's six editions to date have been decided by 11 seconds or fewer; Britain's Lizzie Deignan (Trek-Segafredo) won the most recent race – 2019 – by just two seconds over Polish rider Kasia Niewiadoma (Canyon SRAM). A similarly close GC battle is anticipated in 2021.

Cllr Izzi Seccombe, Leader of Warwickshire County Council, said: "I am thrilled that stage three for the Women's Tour will be taking in so much of historic Atherstone and surrounding villages as competitors race against the clock along the 10 mile long route.

"Now we are looking to cautiously and safely open up our economy more broadly and welcome more visitors to the county, as well as being fantastic entertainment for spectators, this event will be of huge economic benefit to the area.

"It's an opportunity for local businesses in Atherstone to celebrate and embrace cycling as the race comes past their front door, as well as for others to maximise on business opportunities from increased customers and visitors to the county."