Bovey Tracey, Moretonhampstead and Tedburn St Mary are among a number of Devon communities set for a financial boost this year when The Tour of Britain cycle race returns to the county.

The organisers and Devon County Council this week announced that stage five of the prestigious event will be hosted on Thursday, September 15.

It will start in Exeter and cover 110 miles across Dartmoor before finishing in Exmouth.

The route will take in Pathfinder Village, Tedburn St Mary, Moretonhampstead, Bovey Tracey, Dartmeet, Postbridge, Bow, Crediton, Broadclyst and Rockbeare.

It is the first time an entire stage will have been held in Devon.

The race generates millions of pounds for local economies and in the past two years has brought £11million to the region.

It also showcased the county to a global TV audience.

Cllr Stuart Hughes, the county's highways chief, said: 'The tour has been a great success over the past few years and we're proud of the support we have received from local crowds and visitors.

'Cycling is continuing to grow in popularity and Team Qoroz, the South West Bike Academy, will be visiting Devon schools during the build up to the tour to encourage children to take to two wheels.

'Last year the event gave Devon's towns, coast and countryside invaluable exposure. The riders might not have time to take in the scenery but visitors are sure to be impressed.' 

Last year more than 225,000 people turned out for the stages from Minehead to Teignmouth and Tavistock to Glastonbury.

TV images were beamed to Australia, New Zealand, Italy, South Africa and elsewhere.

Hugh Roberts, chief executive of tour organiser the Sweetspot Group, said: 'I look forward to seeing plenty of Devonian flags lining the route come September, making for a memorable and tough stage of The Tour of Britain for some of the world's top riders.'

Bovey Tracey mayor Cllr Avril Kerswell assured him of a warm welcome.

'I'm absolutely delighted, I think this is just wonderful for the town,' she said.

'We're always trying to raise the profile of Bovey Tracey and I think this demonstrates that we're doing a good job.

'The people of Bovey Tracey will welcome the tour with open arms. it should be a super race.'