EXCITED crowds cheered on 78 cyclists as they set off on the final leg of their 500-mile journey.

Cyclists in the Tour of Britain gave residents a taste of things to come when the Tour de France arrives in the capital next summer.

The riders, who began the six-stage journey in Scotland on August 29, left Greenwich Park and headed towards Lewisham.

They were greeted by well-wishers while peddling through Evelyn Street before moving on to Southwark.

Revellers in the park enjoyed refreshments and got the chance to test their own cycling speeds.

Children learnt about cycling proficiency and took part in obstacle courses.

The race ended two hours and 40km later outside Buckingham Palace and was won by Danish rider Martin Pedersen.

Tour of Britain organiser Chris Simon said: "The crowds were superb in the park and all along the route. It was very exciting."