There was a carnival atmosphere outside County Hall today as Trowbridge turned out in force to welcome Tour of Britain cyclists through its streets.

Wiltshire Council set up a FanZone at County Hall in Bythesea Road to celebrate the race coming through the county, complete with a giant screen to watch all the action.

Around 3,600 children lined the streets in the town, with many schools making the most of the FanZone, which included entertainer Dave Hickory making a bike out of balloons.

Among the spectators were Kelly Edmonds and her three-year-old daughter Isla, from Southwick, who said: “It’s really good to be a part of and the atmosphere has been incredible.

“Everyone was cheering and it’s great to have a major event like this as it brings the whole county together. As soon as you hear about something like this happening nearby you have to support it.”

Stallholders at County Hall included Connecting Wiltshire, the Julian House-run Trowbridge Bike Workshop, Hive Originals and Active Trowbridge, while Kris Freeman from Tropical Discovery Workshops brought along a snake for people to hold.

Town crier Trevor Heeks said: “It's absolutely fantastic to have the Tour of Britain, for Wiltshire and for Trowbridge.

"It's marvellous and thousands of children came to see the best cyclists in the world.

“And who know, perhaps in a few years some of these children will be taking part in cycling after being inspired by this event. For Wiltshire and Trowbridge, in particular, this is the most fantastic event since the Olympic Torch.”

The event also saw Joanne Downing, British Cycling recreation manager, present Wiltshire Council with a signed Team GB shirt.

Jane Scott, Wiltshire Council leader, said: "It's a really good county for cycling and there are lots of safe cycling routes. I think it is a great sport and since 2012 cycling has just taken off.

"I like the fact that it's a great sport for the family and all age groups. This is also a great opportunity to advertise the county and for people to see what we have to offer.

"We wanted to put the FanZone in place as elite cycling goes past quickly, so this is something for people to enjoy afterwards and a great way to support local businesses."