Anyone wanting to be a part of the Yorkshire leg of next summer’s Tour de France is being advised to get their applications to become “Tourmakers” in before next week’s deadline.

So far more than 20,000 people have volunteered for the role, which will see them make sure the cycling event runs as smoothly as possible.

Reigning Tour champion Chris Froome has urged people to volunteer and become a part of the biggest sporting event to have come to the area.

Mr Froome said: “I’d say to everyone ‘come and become part of it’.

“The Tour is like a big carnival and this is your chance.

“It’s really exciting that the race is coming to the UK and to be a part of it will be amazing – it’s your Tour!”

The race comes to the district over the weekend of July 5 and 6, and will pass through areas including Otley, Ilkley, Addingham and Silsden.

In total 10,000 Tourmakers will be needed. Their roles include lining the route, welcoming visitors and supporting the emergency and National Parks services.

Supermarket chain ASDA is the official tourmaker partner, and will produce 10,000 uniforms for the Tourmakers, with a distinctive green jacket letting visitors know that they are “here to help”. They will also recruit, train and feed the volunteers.

The deadline to apply to become a tourmaker is December 31. Go to letouryorkshire.com/volunteer