Cumberland Council gifts bikes to celebrate upcoming Tour de France stages
Bike giveaway inspired by the Grand Départ in 2027
In anticipation of the Tour de France Grand Départ coming to Cumberland in 2027, 96 children from the area will soon receive brand-new bikes.
The bike giveaway project, supported by Story Contracting Ltd and implemented by Cumberland Council, aims to benefit young children as part of the Tour de France's JOY programme, designed to inspire the joy of cycling.
Through collaboration with the council's Holiday Activity and Food (HAF) programme, bikes will be distributed to participants through a prize draw, with the first handover scheduled for October half-term.
Cllr Mark Fryer, leader of Cumberland Council, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative and the Tour de France event, hoping it will motivate people to cycle and be active.
Fred Story, owner of Story Contracting and Story Homes, expressed pride in supporting the project, encouraging other businesses to join in expanding the reach of the scheme.
The Tour de France, recognised as the world's largest annual sporting event, will see its 2027 Grand Départ begin in Edinburgh on 2nd July with stage one completing in Carlisle. Stage two kicks off in Keswick on 3rd July, passing through the Lake District and Lancashire before concluding in Liverpool.
Cumberland Council, as host to Stages 1 and 2, will support the national JOY programme, aiming to achieve socio-economic impacts through themes including girls' participation, employability, community engagement, and more.