Peron was one of several riders to criticise safety standards

Olympian Roger Hammond, who finished sixth, said: "The first few riders went into a diversion for the cars at 500m, I got balked and couldn't get back."

About half the field were thought to have wanted to halt the race twice soon after the start, and as the race passed through holiday traffic in Blackpool.

Italian Andrea Peron said: "Cars were asked to stop but wouldn't."

Peron told The Guardian: "The first 10 guys would pass, then the cars would move with the peloton.

"We told the race direction they had to do something, because it was way too dangerous. They have to come up with a solution.

For some police and marshals it's been some years since they last worked on an event of this scale Tony Doyle Tour of Britain director

British professional Charly Wegelius added: "The situation seemed to be too much for the marshals.

"My livelihood is at stake, but I'm a British pro and I want racing in Britain to be successful, something I can be proud of."

Event director Tony Doyle commented: "We're aware that the riders' safety is paramount.

"We've been assured that steps will be taken to solve the problems. The police are going to extend the support they give us.