Britain in bloom

Ablaze with purple heather, it is no wonder this part of the Lancashire Moors is a designated site of outstanding natural beauty.

With ferns freshly green from recent rain and bracken a rusty brown, it provided a spectacular colour show.

But to the 96 riders who sped through the Trough of Bowland yesterday, it was just another stretch on the Tour of Britain Cycle Race.

Heads down, they pedalled on through the sensational scenery during the second stage of the tour from Blackpool to Liverpool.