Carnival across Kent for Le Tour

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An estimated two million people lined the streets as the Tour de France made its way from London through Kent.

There was a carnival atmosphere across the county, with bunting lining the route, pubs laying on special menus and residents organising street parties.

Spectators were out early on Sunday to stake their pitches on the route.

The 189 riders left Greenwich in south London at 1100 BST on the 126-mile ride, with Australian Robbie McEwen finishing first in Canterbury.

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Switzerland's Fabian Cancellara retained the race leader's yellow jersey although Britain's David Millar moved up to third overall.

Kent Police mounted one of its largest logistical operation to ensure the prestigious race ran smoothly.

A jazz band entertained spectators in Tunbridge Wells

Over the past 18 months, a team of officers have put together plans to ensure it caused minimum disruption.

Across Kent 1,300 road junctions were closed for "Le Tour".

About 1,700 constables, support officers, special constables and staff were drafted in to look after crowd management and traffic duties.

The Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO), the Tour organisers, said some of the locations along the route were chosen because they have a special place in British history.

The route wound through the Kent countryside, through the market town of Tenterden and past Ashford before finishing in the spiritual home of the Church of England.