ENTRIES are now open for the South West’s biggest multi-stage cycle event.

The Tour of Wessex 2013 has been launched and will be taking place from May 25 to 27. Olympic and World Champion cyclist Wendy Houvenaghel is supporting the seventh annual event, which will pass through Dorset’s towns and villages during its second day. The tour generates an estimated £120,000-plus boost for the South West economy each year.

It will start and finish in Somerton, Somerset, every day and cover more than 330 miles over three days.

This year’s event attracted more than 2,300 amateur riders from 20 different countries.

Day one involves a 107-mile route through Glastonbury, Cheddar Gorge, Wells and Shepton Mallet.

Stage two will see cyclists travel 116 miles through Somerton and Dorset, including Ilchester, Yeovil, Cerne Abbas, Puddletown, West Lulworth, Corfe Castle, Wareham and Milton Abbas.

Day three will encompass a 112 mile route that travels through Bridgwater, Nether Stowey, Washford, Minehead, Porlock and across Exmoor.

In 2013 there will be more events for all ages and abilities than ever before – from women-only Breeze Rides to grass track racing for children.

Entry starts from £30 for each day’s ride, while the three-day ride starts from £90. Visit tourofwessex.com