THE world's top cyclists will descend on Gwent today as the prestigious Tour of Britain nears its climax.

Ninety-five riders from across the globe will be racing at breakneck speeds along the roads of Cwmbran, Pontypool, Crumlin, Newbridge, Cross Keys, Rogerstone, Newport and Caerleon before hitting the finishing line at the Celtic Manor Resort.

And Gwent riders are saving themselves for a big push in front of the home crowds in the 105-mile fourth stage of the race which could prove decisive in deciding the eventual winner.

Fresh from the Olympic Games, Abergavenny rider Julian Winn heads a six-man Welsh team that includes Cwmcarn's Anthony Malarczyk and Llandavaud-born Jamie Norfolk.

The team told the Argus they would go all out for the chance to wear the coveted yellow jersey.

Winn said: "We are going to give it a right go on our home stage and we hope that things go our way."

Returning after a five-year break, the Tour of Britain has assembled the finest field of professional cyclists in its history.

Previous stages have seen competitors race through Manchester, Leeds and Nottingham and the final stage will be held in London next week.

The race is another achievement for Newport, which is fast making a mark on the international cycling landscape.

Welsh Cycling Union chairman Bill Owen, from Abergavenny, believes the newly-opened £7.5 million Wales National Velodrome in Spytty Park, and the facilities at the Celtic Manor Resort, have been crucial for pulling in the big stars.

He said: "Newport is becoming a cycling city and Gwent a cycling county.

"This is the biggest thing to hit Gwent for years and I'm really looking forward to seeing international cycling stars like Andreas Kloden and Axel Merckx in action."