A KENT cycle shop is acting as a mechanic for one of the teams vying for glory in this week’s Tour of Britain.

Bryan Jackson, who runs the Canterbury-based Downlands Cycles with wife Julie, and it’s associated team, is working for the Navigators Insurance team on the seven-stage race, which began in London on Sunday and finishes in Glasgow on Saturday.

The 39-year-old will provide support for the team’s six riders - which includes 2004 ToB King of the Mountains winner Ben Day and familiar face Kristian House, who grew up in Ayesham before departing to ride on the international stage.

Jackson will provide in-car support to the team and his duties will include cleaning and maintaining the bikes, as well as dealing with technical problems and punctures during stages.