Just one month ago our district was showcased to an international audience as the Grand Depart of the Tour de France came through the district.
The world’s biggest cycling race came through Burley-in-Wharfedale, Ilkley and Addingham on Saturday, 5 July and Addingham, Silsden, Keighley, Cross Roads, Haworth and Oxenhope on Sunday, 6 July. Addingham was the only village in Yorkshire to have the Tour visit twice, as it came through on both the Saturday and the Sunday.
The event surpassed all expectation with an estimated 2.5 million spectators lining the route – more than 150,000 in our district alone. The district looked fantastic on TV and was seen by millions of people world-wide. The sight of the peloton climbing the cobbles on Haworth Main Street has become an iconic image of the race.
There was real community spirit as people decorated their homes and gardens, held events, opened up their buildings for refreshments and toilets, and celebrated this once-in-a-lifetime event.
Anyone visiting the district could not fail to be impressed with just what a wonderful place Yorkshire is to live, work and enjoy. The legacy of the Tour de France in Yorkshire will stretch for many years to come with many people coming to visit the district, cycle the route and host even more events.
Sadly, the Grand Depart in Yorkshire didn’t turn out to be a smooth ride for everybody though:
Do you have any memories of the Grand Depart in the Bradford district you want to share? Leave a comment below, we’d love to hear how you enjoyed this memorable event.
This is brilliant. Can’t believe it’s been a month. The group of people that you have photoed are me and my family and best friends!! It is such a fab photo and i was wondering whether it would be possible for you to send us a copy of it. Thanks again. Sam
Thanks for the comment, Sam. Yes indeed, we love that photo too and we can send you a copy of it. Look out for an email.