Ministers Bid 'Farewell' To Giro

The First and deputy First Minister have officially said "farewell" to the 'Big Start' stage of the Giro d'Italia.

The annual cycle race is held in Italy every year, but incorporates neighbouring countries into the route. This year, the race began in Belfast and took in parts of the Antrim coast and Armagh.

Thousands of people lined the streets in Belfast and along the route, as spectators and supporters got involved in the action throughout the weekend.

First Minister Peter Robinson said: "Northern Ireland has enjoyed a tremendous few days which has undoubtedly reinforced our profile on the world stage.

"As a keen cyclist, I have admired the fierce determination of competitors who have covered gruelling distances at phenomenal speeds with relative ease. They attacked inclines as if they did not exist and I have no doubt will have inspired countless people to give cycling a go.

"I commend the citizens right across Northern Ireland for their phenomenal support over the last few days which has helped to make this Grande Partenza one of the best in the Giro's history one of the most colourful and exciting events we have ever hosted.

The deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said: "The Giro d’Italia was a resounding success and I pay tribute to everyone who was involved in making the event everything we had hoped for and more.

"The colourful and creative team presentation on Thursday night at Belfast City Hall set the tone for what was a memorable few days for all of us. People turned out in record numbers; not just for the team presentation, but for all the stages across the north to watch these elite cyclists in action regardless of the weather.

"The cyclists will now move on to the next stage, however, the long term benefits from a tourism perspective for us will be long lasting. It is another great event we can point to when bidding for further world class events to be staged here."

(IT)