Funds to help mark the arrival of Tour de Yorkshire in Harrogate

Groups are being invited by Harrogate Borough Council to apply for up to £1,000 worth of funding for projects to help mark the cycling event that arrives on Saturday April, 29.

Whether it’s a church spire draped in a blue jersey, a field housing a mammoth bicycle, or a market square spelling out messages of support there is a potential for it to be viewed by over 11 million people in 178 countries when the race takes place.

Welcome to Yorkshire Chief Executive Sir Gary Verity said: “It’s fantastic news that Harrogate Borough Council are offering these grants and they will help put on a tremendous show.

“The eyes of the world will be on the district on the 29th April. Our race was watched by 11.4 million people in 178 countries last year and we’re expecting even more in 2017.

“We can’t wait to see the fun, striking and imaginative ways people will choose to celebrate the Tour, and I’m sure everyone will make the most of this tremendous opportunity and do Yorkshire proud.”

The council project is aimed at encouraging community involvement and is open to groups ranging from schools, community groups, parish and town councils, voluntary organisations and charities.

Councillor Stanley Lumley, Harrogate Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture and Sport said: “One of the most rewarding aspects of the Tour de Yorkshire is how communities work together on projects and activities which really bring the occasion to life.

“Last year funding was used to dress villages in Nidderdale, Pateley Bridge and Knaresborough, so that they looked fantastic for people lining the route and those watching on television.

“This grant funding can be used in a variety of ways from putting on events, dressing towns and villages, establishing cycling activities or creating fabulous land art."

Priority will be given to applications that are received from areas on the Tour de Yorkshire route and these must be from groups within the community rather than individuals.

The deadline for applications to be made for funding is Monday March, 20 at 12 pm.

Organisations will be informed if they have been successful or not during the week beginning Monday 10 April.

For more information on the grants and how to apply visit www.harrogate.gov.uk/communitygrants