Boardman quits ITV to focus on Manchester cycling role

Chris Boardman

Olympic gold medalist Chris Boardman has stepped down as ITV’s Tour de France commentator to focus on his role as Greater Manchester’s walking and cycling commissioner.

Boardman, 50, was given the job last July by Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham. Following the final stage of this year’s Tour yesterday – which saw Geraint Thomas crowned champion for the first time – Boardman tweeted: “Thanks for all the lovely messages about my leaving ITV Tour de France coverage. It’s been an absolute privilege, especially this year. Sadly not enough time for all things, and lots to do in Greater Manchester with @AndyBurnhamGM”

Earlier this month maps for Greater Manchester’s £1.5n “Beelines” routes were unveiled. They are set to become the UK’s biggest cycling and walking network and will “transform how people travel in every area of Greater Manchester,” Transport for Greater Manchester said.

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The Beelines network will be made up of 1,000 miles of routes, including 75 miles of segregated bike lanes.

Boardman, who was born and raised on the Wirral, said: “We are reclaiming streets so that they work for people first – just like we’ve seen many great cities around the world do – and we are ready to reap all of the benefits that come with it.”

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