The world’s best female cyclists descend on Stevenage on Saturday, but there’s a lot more going on than a fast-moving peloton.

The Comet: A bike outside Dry in the Old TownA bike outside Dry in the Old Town (Image: Archant)

The fourth stage of the Aviva Women’s Tour will be crossing the finishing line in Stevenage High Street at about 1pm.

The road will be closed from 6pm tomorrow to 9pm on Saturday and streets around the town will be subject to a rolling road closure while the riders pass through.

Councillor Richard Henry, Stevenage Borough Council’s lead member for leisure matters, said: “This is the first time we’ve hosted the stage finish of the Women’s Tour and it’s set to be great day full of fun activities for the family.

“The whole community is involved, so come and support them and enjoy some of the special deals offered by local businesses.”

It is estimated that the event will draw about 25,000 people into Stevenage, many of who will line the High Street to watch the action at the finish.

The borough council is providing free parking at its St George’s Way car park all day and at The Thomas Alleyne Academy in the High Street from 7.30am to 4.30pm.

But motorists are warned that it might not be possible to use the car parks when rolling road closures are in force.

People are also being encouraged to use the town’s cycle paths and ride to the event. There will be a free bike park in the Primett Road car park all day and from 9.30am people will be able to get their bikes checked, repaired and have advice on security. The professional teams will also be based in the car park so any enthusiasts can tour the facilities and talk with the experts.

The stage starts in Waltham Cross at 10am and tracks through North Herts before entering the town via Stevenage Road at about 12.30pm.

The riders are expected in the High Street from about 12.45pm and will race towards the finish line outside the Cromwell Hotel.

Mayor of Stevenage Howard Burrell will present medals at around 1.20pm.

It’s not just professionals racing on the day – from 10.30am to 11.30am the British Cycling Girls will be trying to get a personal best, and other clubs, including Stevenage Cycling Touring Club, will be riding along the finish line from 11.30am to 12 noon.