Grants of between £500 and £5,000 have been made available by a Cumbrian council to help community organisations celebrate the arrival of the Tour of Britain Women.
Cumberland Council is offering the funding across West Cumbria to support projects for the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women, which begins in Cockermouth on August 19.
It is making funding available to help local organisations create activities that encourage participation, promote cycling and celebrate the arrival of one of the UK’s most prestigious sporting events.
The 2026 race will be the longest in the event’s history, covering almost 650km across five stages.
Riders will travel through Frizington, Whitehaven, Lowca, Workington, Flimby, Maryport, Allonby, Silloth, Wigton, Caldbeck and Aspatria before returning to Cockermouth for the end of stage one.
Mark Fryer, leader of Cumberland Council, said: “The Tour of Britain Women is an exciting opportunity for Cumberland and the communities along the route.
“We want local organisations to play a key role in creating activities that bring people together, encourage more people to get active and help communities feel part of this major sporting event.
“I would encourage eligible organisations to apply and help us create a lasting impact from the race.”
The authority said projects encouraging the inclusion of women and girls, increasing engagement in cycling, or animating and decorating the route would be considered favourably.
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, with decisions made within one week of submission.
The deadline to apply is July 24, although the fund could close earlier if all money is allocated.
Projects must be completed by October 30 with successful applicants required to submit a final report outlining their achievements and expenditure.
