Sir Bradley Wiggins pulls out of cycling festival due to 'slight illness'

The former Tour De France winner was to race with Team Wiggins in a major coup for organisers of the two day event, which got under way in Stafford town centre last night.

But on the day of the ride it was announced the legendary cyclist and four-time Olympic gold medal winner would not take part because of illness.

However, more than 400 others were still competing in the festival, which included professional races in Stafford town centre and also at Shugborough Hall today.

A message from the official Wiggins cycling team twitter account said: "Unfortunately Sir Bradley will not be attending the Stafford Cycling Festival due to a slight illness. "He wishes the team the best! #Wiggins."

The festival is expected to generate a £130,000 boost to the Staffordshire economy, but there was disappointment that Wiggins would not be there.

George Demetriou, manager of the Guildhall Shopping Centre in Stafford said: "I am disappointed. Undoubtedly some people will be put off coming now.

"But we will get the core of people who enjoy cycling.

"It has picked up over the last three years, it has attracted more people and sponsorship."

People also took to social media and Christine Cox posted on the Wiggin team page: "What a shame! Hope SBW is back up to full strength soon."

Wiggins was due to be riding alongside JLT-Condor, Team Raleigh, Madison Genesis and One Pro Cycling.

The Stafford Grand Prix took place last night and was being followed by the INTO Staffordshire 35 mile ride and a longer 66 mile event today.

Professionals will draw the festival to a close this evening with the Francesco Group Women's Grand Prix and the Stafford Kermesse.

Councillor Mark Winnington, cabinet member for economy, said the region was becoming Sportshire County following the success of the Ironman 70.3 event last month.

Around 420 people from Staffordshire and across the UK registered for the public sportives.