A workshop is being staged to help communities get involved in preparations for next year’s Tour de France.

The gathering will discuss ways in which people can plan for the event and maximise opportunities.

District cycle forum B-Spoke – with support from Bradford Council – is organising the workshop, at The Gumption Centre, Little Horton Lane, Bradford, on Monday, August 12, from 5.30pm to 8pm.

The event will focus on three themes – the build-up to the Tour, which includes a 100-day cultural festival, the Tour itself and the legacy.

Coun Andrew Thornton, the council’s executive member for environment and sport, said: "This is a good time for local people to start thinking about the opportunities and the challenges of having the Grand Depart on their own doorstep.

"It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for residents to enjoy one of the biggest sporting events in the world and build on that enthusiasm for cycling.

"The council will be working with businesses and local groups to make sure the benefits of the Tour de France will be spread right across the district, both economically and culturally.

"It is estimated that the Tour de France Grand Depart will bring around £100 million to the Yorkshire economy. When the Tour last visited England, racing from London to Kent in 2007, it is estimated it brought £88 million to the south-east economy."

Anyone wanting to attend the workshop should e-mail tom.jones@bradford.gov.uk.