Huge response to Tour Maker appeal, last call for volunteers closes tomorrow

Around 26,000 people have applied for the position of Tour Maker when the Tour de France comes to Yorkshire this July – more than two and a half times as many as there are places available for the volunteers.

Applications to become a Tour Maker on the opening two stages of the race – from Leeds to Harrogate on Saturday 5 July and York to Sheffield the following day – closed at the end of December.

“We’ve had an overwhelming response to our call for people to register an interest in becoming a Tour Maker,” said Welcome to Yorkshire chief executive, Gary Verity.

“It clearly demonstrates not only how excited and passionate people are about the Tour de France coming to Yorkshire, but also their willingness to get out there and get involved in volunteering to help make this the grandest of Grand Départs in history,” he added.

During December, reigning Tour de France champion Chris Froome helped model the Tour Makers’ uniform, designed in partnership with Leeds-based supermarket operator Asda under its George clothing brand. Asda is also helping with the recruitment and training of volunteers.

The application process to become a Tour Maker for Stage 3 of the race from Cambridge to London is still open, but you’d better be quick if you’re interested – it closes tomorrow, Monday 20 January.

You can apply here.