WITH just two weeks to go before Le Grand Depart, organisers are hoping for a great turnout at La Grande Fete in Ben Rhydding this weekend.

The annual Ben Rhydding Community Fete takes place on the former Ilkley Middle School field off Wheatley Lane and Valley Drive this Saturday (June 21)

As in previous years, there will be a full range of events including demonstrations, games, stalls, tombolas and a variety of refreshments.

But along with all the usual attractions - and in keeping with the current outbreak of Yorkshire bike fever, this year's event will feature a decorated bike competition.

Committee member, Sandra Scarlett, said: "It's free to enter, so decorate your bike and bring it along to the Fete. Any bike, any age, any theme and any number of wheels."

A parade of bikes will take place in the arena at 2.30pm, with Stephanie Millward, chair of Ilkley Cycling Club awarding prizes for 1st. 2nd and 3rd places.

Cakes and tea will be available all afternoon, as will ice cream, a barbecue and a beer tent, while other refreshments will include an adapted bike allowing visitors to use pedal power to make their own smoothies.

This is being run in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care.

Dr. Bob and the Bluesmakers will provide musical entertainment, as will jazz band Singe 'n' Swing.

Organiser, Karen Palframan, said: "This will be our ninth Community Fete and we seem to grow each year.."

This year will see a Neighbourhood Plan stall that Ilkley Parish Council is bringing, and IIlkley Civic Society will also be there.

Mrs Palframan added: "We started out aiming to provide a fun afternoon for the community, and hoping to cover costs, so we're always very grateful to our sponsors and raffle prize donors, for helping make the Fete such a success and we're hoping for another great day this weekend.”

The Ben Rhydding Community Fete will take place from 2pm to 4pm. Admission is free.

Visitors who bring decorated bikes are reminded parking is free, but they should bring their own security lock.

Meanwhile, youngsters at Ben Rhydding Pre-School have been learning all about Le Tour.

This has included learning about the history of Le Tour, the meaning of the different coloured jerseys, staying safe when cycling and

The children have also decorated bikes and tricycles ready for Ben Rhydding Fete, and making bunting in jersey colours.

Ben Rhydding Pre-School caters for children aged 2 ½ to 5 years old and has vacancies for September.