Colombian Mauricio Ardila (Chocolade Jacques) has won the Tour of Britain, 12 seconds ahead of his nearest rival and 33 seconds ahead of fastest British rider, Roger Hammond.

Ardila had made probable his victory with his win on day four of the tour, the Welsh leg of 160km from Newport to the resort of Celtic Manor. Earlier in the race he’d taken Wednesday’s second stage, the 172 km from Leeds to Sheffield, by just one second after battling through the Peak district hills. Today’s closing leg criterium, 45 miles round the one-mile circuit through streets of Westminster taking in Whitehall and the Embankment, was won by Enrico Degano of Italy. Ardila finished with the peloton, sealing his victory, and acknowledged the support of his team in controlling the stage to ensure his first ever stage race win.

The turnout on in the capital was impressive as thousands lined the circuit, including plenty of Colombians cheering on Ardila. Flying the flag for Great Britain, Hammond finished in 12th place, Charles Wegelius in 17th and Tom Southam in 20th.
For full placings see the Tour of Britain website.