Cyclo is delighted to hear that “advanced talks” have apparently taken place between the organisers of the Tour de France and the regional tourism agency Welcome to Yorkshire about the possibility of holding the 2016 Grand Depart (the opening 2 days/stages) in the county. Traditionally the opening stages are held outside France every two years but haven’t landed on UK shores since 2007 when the Classic got underway in Kent, a move that proved massively popular with many thousands turning out to watch.
It is understood that the proposed Yorkshire stages would include Hull, Sheffield, Scarborough, the Dales, Leeds and York although the Tour organisers have yet to visit and review the possible course suggestions. Further dialogue is expected during June between all parties and before any commitment to view exactly what Yorkshire has to offer is made. Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, confirms “…in-depth discussions are ongoing but I can reveal Yorkshire’s bid has been positively received by the organising committee at this stage.”
With the potential of millions of tourist pounds at stake, the blessing of the Tour de France running a route through the English countryside is naturally attractive; but more than this it’s clear that a UK visit always does wonders to boost the sport’s domestic profile. Cyclo will keep our fingers crossed (and you posted…)
