On Saturday some of the world’s best cyclists raced through Sussex and into Brighton for the seventh stage of this year’s Tour of Britain. However, it is not the first time the county has welcomed the professional peloton. BEN JAMES looks back through the archives.

Yellow bunting adorned the high streets of Sussex villages on July 6 1994 as the Tour de France rolled through.

In scenes similar to those seen across Yorkshire this July, the race’s grand depart saw thousands take to the streets and embrace the annual event.

The stage, which was the race’s fourth, set off from Dover before winding 127 miles to Brighton.

The finish was similar to the one on Sunday, with riders slogging it out up Ditchling Beacon before making their way down to the seafront and finishing along Madeira Drive.

It was also a special day for Sussex-based then professional Sean Yates who was given the honour of heading the peloton as they entered the county ahead of the 200-odd other riders.

Starting by Dover Castle in the morning the riders set out on what was classified as a hilly stage.

Blackhorse Hill, ten miles out of Dover near Hythe and White Hill on the A28 near Ashford before a sprint in Maresfield tested the legs.

Approaching the finish, the riders headed up Ditchling Beacon before tackling Elm Grove.

It was then down to the seafront for the sprint finish.

The winner on the day was Spaniard Francisco Cabello with Britain’s Chris Boardman fourth, a further 44 seconds back.

The Brit had started well in the race, winning the opening time trial in Lille. He held the yellow jersey for two stages after that before losing it the day before the race into Brighton.

With the stage being held in the week, thousands bunked off work with many schools closing for the day so children could witness the spectacle.

Perhaps the biggest crowd was on Ditchling Beacon – one of the most feared climbs in southern England.

Spectators lined the narrow road as the peloton weaved up the steep hill with the tour’s convoy of motorbikes and cars not far behind.

It was then downhill all the way into Brighton before heading up Elm Grove – which was also packed with fans.

For the weeks before the stage, Sussex went tour crazy with special events and festivals held.

Extra park and ride sites were set up and train services tripled as sports fans from across the county descended on Sussex to view the race.

Like on Saturday it was over in a flash. But what a flash.

Spaniard Miguel Indurain went on to win the yellow jersey in Paris following a dominant display and the success of the UK stages paved the way for the tour’s return in 2007 and then earlier this summer.

Let’s hope it is not long before the great race returns to the roads of Sussex.