Tour de Yorkshire: Putting Wetherby and Tadcaster on the world map

Anticipation is growing after it was revealed the race will be featuring the largest set of the teams in the annual race’s history. This will also be the first time equal numbers of men and women’s teams will be participating.

For organisers work is well underway to prepare for the teams passing through and showcasing the two towns.

Mayor of Wetherby, Coun Norma Harrington said: “Funds have been put towards a big screen that will be set up near the town hall, alongside this we are going to have fair rides, charity stalls giving out information and local shops will be remaining open.

“We are really looking forward to all these visitors enjoying their visit and it is an opportunity to show what Wetherby is all about and get them coming back.

“The work that has gone into the preparation for this has been a really good community effort.”

Owner of Tadcaster businesses Cyclesense and Everything Good Goes cafe, John Stainthorpe, has worked closely with organisers to prepare for the festivities.

Mr Stainthorpe said: “I cannot wait for it, this is the best thing that could have happened to Tadcaster and is exactly what the town needs to be put on the world map permanently. The riders will come through but people will follow the route ever afterwards.”

News of the record number of teams comes as organisers retain hopes of attracting stars of the cycling world including Mark Cavendish and Chris Froome.