THE world's best cyclists will storm through Taunton and West Somerset today as the Tour of Britain arrives in the county.

The South-West stage - Stage Two - hosted by Somerset County Council, is set to be an exciting day for participants and spectators alike, covering some of the most breathtaking, demanding and scenic landscapes of the competition.

With no shortage of challenging terrain to test riders Stage Two is expected to be one of the decisive stages of the week-long event, which runs from September 9-15, starting in London and finishing in Glasgow.

As well as pushing 102 riders to the limit the 105-mile South-West circuit takes in some of Somerset's most scenic landscapes, stunning coastline and tourist highlights.

Race Times (approx):

* 10.30am: race departs from Feet Air Arm Museum, Yeovilton.

* 10.45am: start proper

* 11.08am: Othery - first sprint section

* 11.28am: Taunton (A358)

* 12.13pm: Dunster - second sprint section

* 12.29pm: Porlock Toll Road - King of the Mountains section

* 1.23pm: Exford

* 1.33pm: Wheddon Cross

* 1.41pm: Goosemoor - third sprint section

* 2.22pm: race finish - North Street, Taunton

Keep reading this website for updates and don't miss the County Gazette on Thursday, September 13, for a full roundup.

And remember - Send us your photos and video clips from the day!

Rolling road closures will be in place and Taunton town centre is sealed off - for the latest traffic news, visit our Local Information Centre.