What distance is the race?

The race distance is 162km which is the second shortest in this year’s tour. The shortest is the eighth and final stage in London which is 93km. The longest stage this year is 225km which is the joint longest in the race’s history.

How long will it take the cyclists to finish?

No official estimate has yet been released but Ribble Valley-based professional cyclist Ian Wilkinson has said that he expects the race to last about four hours. He said that while the weather is unlikely to change the terrain might add or take away 15 minutes depending on how the riders cope with the stage.

Who are the stars to look out for?

The full details of who will be competing this year have not been released. However it is expected that Sir Bradley Wiggins, the first British man to win the Tour de France, will take to the roads. Fellow tour winner Chris Froome could also be seen speeding through East Lancashire along with Burnley’s own Steven Burke. Chatburn’s Ian Wilkinson is also hoping to race this year.

Any special things to look out for?

The Duke of Lancaster pub in Colne, near to where the finish line will be, is to redecorate its frontage to mark the tour coming to the town. Bikes and posters are to be fastened to the walls, railings and windows to help celebrate the race’s arrival.

Hundreds of school pupils are expected to cheer the riders through Clitheroe during the final sprint section. The pupils are planning to be on a patch of grass near the Homebase store at the junction of Queensway and Salford.

Where can I park?

More information on exactly where spectators will be allowed to park is due to be released in the coming weeks.

However Ribble Valley Borough Council-run car parks in Clitheroe include Edisford Road, Holden Street, Lowergate, Clitheroe Market, Mitchell Street, North Street, Peel Street, Railway View, Riverside, Chester Avenue and Whalley Road.

It also runs car parks in Longridge such as Mardale Road and Barclay Road.

Pendle Council operates car parks in Colne Lane, Cross Skelton Street, Dockray Street, Edward Street, Great George Street, Greenfield Road, Hawley Street, Keighley Road, Midgley Street, Nelson Street, Queen Street, Stanley Street, Thomas Street and Windy Bank.

Can I see it on TV?

In 2015 the Aviva Tour of Britain will continue to be broadcast live on ITV4, with three hours of live coverage each day, plus an hour highlights programme every evening with the best of the day's action. Nearer the race you'll be able to find out all of the details of the 2015 broadcast, including presenters, timing and repeats. In addition, the race will continue to be broadcast in more than 120 countries around the world, either in live, highlights of delayed format.