Bradley Wiggins is set to cycle through Suffolk on Sunday as the Tour of Britain starts at Ipswich's Waterfront

EXCITEMENT is today building as the eyes of the cycling world prepare to focus on Ipswich for the start of the nation’s biggest bike race.

And you could be at the heart of the action, following Tour de France winner and Olympic gold medallist Bradley Wiggins and world champion Mark Cavendish as the Tour of Britain sets off from Ipswich Waterfront on Sunday.

They and dozens of professional riders will be heading for the Royal Norfolk Showground, near Norwich, for what is not only the first but also the longest stage of the tour.

And to celebrate the arrival of the race in Suffolk, we are offering Star readers a fantastic opportunity to win some exclusive prizes.

The first name pulled out of the cycling helmet will win a yellow jersey, signed by a host of the top cyclists taking to Suffolk’s roads for the event.

Our winner will also be in with a chance of securing a ‘money can’t buy’ place in one of the official race cars, following the riders the length of the route.

For the runners-up there is the chance to get your hands on one of the VIP hospitality tickets and two free entries for the Tour Ride, which takes place on Saturday and allows amateur cyclists and fans the chance to ride some or all of the Tour of Britain stage one course.

And the tour is just part of the fun planned for this weekend’s cycling action.

As well as the Tour Ride setting off on Saturday the Ipswich Skyride is taking place on Sunday, once the professional cyclists have left the Waterfront.

Councillor Colin Noble, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member responsible for sport, said: “We have already seen an amazing turn out from the people of Suffolk to support events like the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations and the Olympic torch relay, and this is another opportunity to create a carnival atmosphere in the county.

“Whether it’s challenging yourself to the Tour Ride, cycling in Ipswich as part of the Sky Ride or arranging an event in your community to welcome the professional riders, we want as many people as possible to get involved.”

For your chance to win simply answer the following question:

Who won the 2012 Tour De France ?

A Cavendish

B Henderson

C Wiggins

And text STAR CYCLE followed by your answer, name and email address to 80058 e.g. STAR CYCLE A Jane Smith jane.smith@email.com

Texts cost 50p plus your standard network rate. One winner will be selected from all correct entries received by 23.59 pm on September 5, 2012.

The promoters decision is final. For full terms and conditions go to www.ipswichstar.co.uk Usual Archant promotion rules apply. Text customer services 0207 6335020,

n Are you looking forward to the weekend’s cycling action? Write to Your Letters, Ipswich Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail starletters@ archant.co.uk