Opening Tour of Britain stage in Wales for first time

Britain's first Tour de France winner, Sir Bradley Wiggins, will lead his own Team Wiggins on the eight stage event

For the first time ever, cycling's Tour of Britain is getting under way in Wales.

Stage one of eight started at Beaumaris, Anglesey, at 11:00 BST on Sunday.

Sprinter Mark Cavendish is leading a strong Etixx-Quick Step team and Britain's first Tour de France winner Sir Bradley Wiggins leads Team Wiggins,

Nine UCI world teams will pass through Cumbria, Scotland, Northumberland, the Peak District, and finish in London.

Fans hope to catch sight of Sir Bradley Wiggins before the race gets underway in Beaumaris

On their way - riders race towards Llanberis - before the challenging climb to the top of Pen-y-Pass

Sunday's 177 km (110 miles) stage will finish in Wrexham at about 15:00 BST.

Race director Mick Bennett said the route would showcase north Wales' "amazing scenery".

"We know that we will receive a warm welcome right the way along the route from Anglesey to Wrexham," he said.

Two-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome and Team Sky team-mate Geraint Thomas, from Cardiff, will not be appearing because they are competing in the Vuelta a Espana.