Drivers travelling through Essex have been urged not to rely on sat-nav while road closures are in place for one of the world's biggest sporting events today.
The third stage of the Tour de France cycle race from Cambridge to London will attract millions of TV viewers and thousands of
spectators along the route through Essex.
More than 200 of the world's leading riders will race through the county for about two hours on Monday afternoon entering Essex near Saffron Walden before moving into London near Woodford Green.
Road closures have been controlled by Essex County Council and full details of roads affected and closure times can be found at www.letouressex.com
Police officers have been preparing for the event and working with numerous partner agencies since the race organisers announced the route in January 2013.
Extensive plans are in place to maintain the safety of riders, spectators and residents, to reduce and detect crime, crowd control and to prevent any breach of the peace.
Supt Adrian Coombs said : "It is important that all drivers are aware of the race route and the closures.
"Try to avoid the affected areas completely but if your journeys are essential allow more time and use alternative routes.
"If you are driving through the county do not rely on your sat navs. Look at the route on a map and set the sat nav to take you through unaffected areas.
"We are also urging spectators to stay off the road as the riders and the following convoy approach as there have been incidents on the Yorkshire stages where people have been much too close.
"Some of the cyclists have expressed concerns about the potential danger to themselves and to spectators.
"The weather looks set for a great day and we hope people plan ahead, stay safe and look after their property, especially those riding to vantage points on expensive bikes."
Officers will also be on duty in areas where the largest crowds are expected such as in Saffron Walden, Finchingfield, Rayne, villages to the east of Chelmsford and Epping.
A special operation room has been set up at Police HQ and officers are working closely with partner agencies throughout race day to deal with any problems as they arise.
