Tour of Britain honour for Charlie (9)

Young Charlie Birtwistle won a competition to design the start flag for Stage 2 of the 2015 Aviva Tour of Britain.

The flag was unveiled by Charlie and Ribble Valley Mayor Bridget Hilton in the foyer of Ribble Valley Borough Council, which is hosting an exhibition of the competition’s entries.

The world’s top cyclists, tens of thousands of spectators and the world’s media descended on the Ribble Valley and Pendle yesterday as Stage 2 of the Aviva Tour of Britain raced through both boroughs from Clitheroe to Colne. A competition to design the start flag attracted more than 100 entries from youngsters throughout the borough.

Charlie’s winning design features Clitheroe Castle, Pendle Hill, the River Ribble and a witch in the Tour colours of red, white and blue riding a bike!

When designing the flag Charlie made a list of all the famous things the Ribble Valley is known for and spent three days working on the picture.

Charlie, who likes cycling and art, was thrilled to win the competition.

Here’s our look back at great day in the Ribble Valley:

Ribble Valley takes centre stage for cycling extravaganza

Our video of the big day - can you spot yourself in the crowds?

Coun. Hilton commented: “The standard of entries for the competition was exceptionally high, with some fantastic designs, many featuring bicycles, Pendle Hill, the River Ribble and of course witches.

“Charlie’s design was particularly fabulous, with some great humour, including a witch wearing red, white and blue, and riding a bike with Union Jack wheels.”

She went on to thank all the schools and their pupils that took part in the competition.

Charlie joined Coun. Hilton at the start of Stage Two of the Tour of Britain in Clitheroe town centre at 11 am.