UNCERTAINTY surrounds Dorset's stage in the Tour of Britain after stage six was called off following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

Race officials have taken the decision to scrap the route from Tewkesbury to Gloucester as a mark of respect to Her Majesty.

Organisers will tomorrow (Friday) decide whether the Dorset leg and Sunday's finale on the Isle of Wight will go ahead as planned.

Tour of Britain chiefs published a brief statement on the matter late on Thursday evening.

It read: "The Tour of Britain organisation, alongside the teams, riders and officials involved in the event, are deeply saddened by the passing of Her Majesty the Queen.

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"We would like to send their deepest condolences to the whole of the Royal Family.

"As a result, stage six in Gloucestershire on Friday 9 September, scheduled to take place between Tewkesbury and Gloucester, will not take place.

"Further updates in regards to the status of stages seven and eight will be provided in due course."

Movistar rider Gonzalo Serrano currently leads the race.