Organisers of the Staffordshire Ironman event will provide another multi-million pound boost to the local economy.

Ironman competitor Will Clarke
Ironman competitor Will Clarke

More than 2,000 competitors are set to swim 1.2miles in Chasewater, cycle 56 miles through the villages around Lichfield and run 13.1 miles at the Shugborough Estate on June 12.

The inaugral event last year saw an estimated £1.4million spent on food and accommodation by competitors while a further £1million was spent by spectators during the weekend.

Cllr Mark Winnington, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet member for economic growth, said the organisers were working with the authority to ensure the race goes as well as possible.

“The first Staffordshire Ironman was a huge success from start to finish and was a great opportunity to really showcase what a fantastic county Staffordshire is to live, work and visit,” he said.

“It brings a great boost for the local economy, businesses and tourism and as county we are looking forward to giving a warm welcome to the competitors and their supporters once again next month.

“It will be a busy weekend as it also marks the Queen’s official birthday, so it really is a great opportunity for communities to get together and join in the celebrations.”

The Ironman competition will also mean temporary roads closures on June 12, with details of routes affected available online.

Kevin Stewart, managing director of Ironman UK and Ireland, said: “We had a fantastic first year in Staffordshire and are working hard to make sure the second year is an even bigger success story.

“Staffordshire provides a spectacular backdrop for the event and the great reception from local residents along the route will undoubtedly help spur on competitors over the finishing line once again.”

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.