Funds open for communities on Tour of Britain route

Communities along the route of the Tour of Britain men's cycle race in North Yorkshire later this year have been urged to apply for funding to help celebrate the event.

The county will host the fourth stage of the famous race in September, with riders starting in Helmsley and passing through Easingwold, Boroughbridge and Ripon, before heading into the Yorkshire Dales and finishing in Leyburn.

York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority has made the money available to towns and villages through the Mayoral Community Grant scheme.

David Skaith, York and North Yorkshire's elected mayor, said the race represented a major opportunity to "create a lasting legacy".

The North Yorkshire stage will take place on Saturday 5 September and is expected to attract large crowds.

Featuring about 8,860ft (2,700m) of ascent, organisers have described the stage as the toughest of the 2026 men's race.

The route was designed to highlight both the county's varied terrain and its scenic backdrop to millions of TV viewers.

Town and parish councils along the route will be able to apply for funding of up to £500 each.

Meanwhile, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service, larger awards of up to £2,000 will be available for host locations Helmsley and Leyburn.

The money can be used for decorations, community events or activities designed to bring residents together on race day, as well as to showcase local identity to visitors lining the route.

Skaith said the grants would help communities "celebrate this fantastic event, bring residents together and showcase the unique character, hospitality and pride" of towns and villages across North Yorkshire.

The route has been developed in partnership with British Cycling and North Yorkshire Council, with organisers highlighting the mix of challenging climbs and spectacular scenery.

Carl Les, leader of North Yorkshire Council, said it would provide a "marvellous opportunity" for communities to come together and promote the county on a national and international stage.

National Park representatives also welcomed the announcement, with the North York Moors National Park Authority and Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority both highlighting the chance to showcase their landscapes to a global audience.

Listen to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.