Tour of Britain riders get ready: In photos

The teams and riders taking part in the 2010 Tour of Britain are readying themselves for the start of the race in Rochdale (Saturday, September 11).

Cycling Weekly photographer Andy Jones was on hand as the riders started arrived last night for the race's official launch.

Team Sky were resplendent in their new green-tinged kit to promote Sky's Rainforest Rescue initiative.

Russell Downing was checking out his new bike, as a Sky mechanic adjusted his brakes to suit the British fans' favourite. Downing was about to set off from the De Vere Stadium with Sky team-mates Adam Hansen and Greg Henderson.

Garmin-Transitions' Cameron Meyer was busy adjusting his cleats as a Garmin team mechanic fixed on race numbers.

Steve Cummings (Sky) arrived later on and chatted with Jonny Bellis (Saxo Bank), who told CW that he was looking forward to racing in the Tour of Britain.

British national champion Geraint Thomas (Sky) arrived a short while later.

The 2010 Tour of Britain starts on Saturday (September 11) in Rochdale and finishes eight days later in London on Saturday, September 18.

Tour of Britain 2010: Related links

Tour of Britain 2010: Cycling Weekly's coverage index

Russell Downing gets hisbrakes adjusted

Russell Downing takes a breather

Sky go green for the Tour of Britain

Greg Henderson does a no-handed track stand

Geraint Thomas arrives

Cameron Meyer sorts his shoes out

Garmin's mechanic afixes race numbers

Jonny Bellis was in good form

Jonny Bellis chats to Steve Cummings