Trusov's pursuit of the leaders eventually paid off

Trusov was part of a 36-man break which made a decisive move after two-thirds of the gruelling 105-mile leg.

He kept pace with the leaders and hit the front after avoiding a four-man pile-up close to the finish in Taunton.

Britain's Cavendish, the prologue and first stage winner, came home in 34th, more than 10 minutes behind Trusov.

The T-Mobile rider admitted he had felt the pace over the Exmoor Hills.

"It was always going to be a really tough day and that's exactly what it proved to be," he said.

"The team did a great job for me again but unfortunately for me there are more than 30 riders here this week who are better climbers than me.

"Hopefully Wednesday will see a bunch sprint again and we can challenge for another stage.

"I was always realistic that I wouldn't hold on to the yellow jersey but it was nice while it lasted."

Scotland's Evan Oliphant brought a smile to the home fans with a stunning finish to take 10th place on the stage.