A NATIONAL cycling race will run through Dudley as part its route around the West Midlands.

The National Road Championships take place in the West Midlands this summer and will see male and female road racers take to the region's streets.

The route starts at Centenary Square in Birmingham and travels through the borough past The Black Country Living Museum, Dudley Zoo and Himley Hall before finishing in Wolverhampton.

Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of the council, said: "We’re delighted with today’s announcement that the National Road Cycling Championship will be travelling through the borough and past many of our most notable tourist attractions.

"It is one of the biggest weekends on the UK cycling calendar and will give fans of the sport the chance to see our best riders on their doorsteps. It could also inspire the next generation to get involved in cycling.

"Playing a part in this event gives us an opportunity to showcase Dudley, and the wider Black Country, to an international audience as a great place to live, work and invest.

"It should also bring economic benefits from extra people visiting the borough, while demonstrating our competence in helping to deliver a major sporting event on a national scale."

The race takes place on June 20.