Some of the world’s top cyclists will be sprinting through Cockermouth in September when the Tour of Britain comes to town.

Main Street has been named as one of the three sprint sections during stage two of the event, which will start from Carlisle on Monday, September 5.

Sir Bradley Wiggins and Mark Cavendish are two of the big names lined up to take part.

Traders are hoping the event will bring lots of people to town.

Town centre manager Joe Broomfield is calling for businesses to adopt a green theme.

Mr Broomfield said: “It’s great news that we’ll be able to see riders battling it out for points in the sprint competition.

“Those interested in cycling will know that the sprints jersey is green – so I’m suggesting that Cockermouth goes for a green theme this year, as an alternative to the classic yellow.

“Many Cockermouth businesses produced some fantastic window displays last year and it would be great if we could do the same again this year and ensure the town is looking great.”

The riders will head into town past Cockermouth School and down Castlegate Drive.

They will then head along Main Street and turn left at Wordsworth House roundabout. They will go up Sullart Street/Gallowbarrow, turn left at the traffic lights and go down the hill, turning right on to Lorton Street before leaving town along Lorton Road.

The first cyclists are expected in Cockermouth at around 1.30pm.

Sue Hannah owns Limelighting, which is near the corner of Station Street and Lorton Street, which the cyclists will be speeding around.

“It should be quite an exciting place to watch.”

Wordsworth House attracted lots of coverage last year when it sported green spots in honour of the tour coming to town.

Kirsty Tibbetts, visitor services manager, said: “We will do something although we’ve got no plans to paint the house green!”

Sam Standage, town mayor, said: “It’s a fantastic coup. I’m delighted it’s coming back.”

The 117-mile stage two route goes from Carlisle to Kendal. The first King of the Mountain stage is at Whinlatter Pass, followed by the second King of the Mountains challenge at Chestnut Hill in Keswick.

The route takes the riders down the western side of Thirlmere reservoir, joining the A591 to take in the newly-rebuilt section at Dunmail Raise, which reopened in May following a major repairs after the December floods.

Organisers have confirmed 17 of the 20 World Tour teams who will be competing in this year’s Tour of Britain, including Team Sky. One of its members is Tour de France winner Chris Froome, although it has not been confirmed if he is taking part.