Essex will host part of the biggest cycling race in the world next Monday and the Echo and Gazette newspapers will be bringing you unrivalled coverage in the run-up to the event.

Every day this week, starting tomorrow, our sports pages will feature a number of stories about the Tour de France's visit to Essex, with Maldon man Alex Dowsett set to play a starring role in this year's race.

What you can expect in this week's sports pages.

Analysis from this weekend's British Cycling National Road Race and Time-Trial Championships, including interviews with the local riders.

An extended analysis piece from local rider and bike store owner Jason White, including a five-minute video of the tour route through Essex, with local vantage points and what to expect.

We visit Cafe Knead at the Blue Egg, in Braintree - a regular haunt of Alex Dowsett, Mark Cavendish, Russell Hampton and cyclists countywide - to speak with the owners about how they cater for the riders (plus we do a taste test!)

An extended interview with Alex Dowsett about his hopes and dreams for the next month.

Plus we dissect the route for you - with a guide on who to watch/ where to watch We will also be on the packed streets on the day, giving you first-hand coverage of what is the biggest sporting event to hit the county this year.

Don't miss it - only in this week's Echo and Gazette sports pages.