Excitement is continuing to build as the district prepares to welcome the Tour de France this summer after Keighley, Haworth and Ilkley were earmarked as three of the preferred locations to serve as key focal points for spectators.

Bradford Council has confirmed the company organising the Spectator Hubs has identified the three sites, where people wanting to enjoy the race can congregate safely, with access to a giant television screen, refreshments and entertainment.

However, a Council spokesman stressed that the final decision on the sites would not be made until the end of this month.

The facilities are to be operated by TdF Hub 2014 Ltd, a not-for-profit company set up by UK Sport.

Haworth Main Street trader Nikki Carroll has been among those working to put together Haworth’s bid to host a hub in the village’s central park.

She said: “I think it’s really exciting. Subject to the confirmation at the end of March, if this goes ahead it will be a fantastic opportunity for Haworth.

“We’re looking at a two-day event, so both the Saturday and the Sunday, which will include a big television screen and entertainment for all the family.”

Coun Tony Wright, chairman of Keighley Town Council’s events and leisure committee, said: “I think Keighley does need to have a hub, and that’s why we’ve been pushing to have one here. I’m confident that we’ll be confirmed as one of the locations.”

Across the district, a variety of Tour-themed initiatives are taking place in the run up to the event.

A professional artist based in Haworth, Judy Sale, is working on a series of abstract paintings with a cycling motif which she plans to exhibit locally.

She said: “I expect there will be eight to 10 paintings once I’ve finished, all inspired by the Tour.”

Meanwhile, a project to involve youngsters has enthused children at Haworth Primary School.

A class of 26 year five pupils worked together to create a large letter H, which will form part of a number of Hollywood-style signs being displayed at outdoor locations to welcome the race to the Worth Valley.

The Project Hollywood initiative is being led by Worth Valley ward councillor Russell Brown, who visited Haworth Primary, taking with him the materials needed to construct the letter.