PEOPLE are being asked to celebrate the Tour de France’s arrival in the region with a “Grand Departy” to raise money for Marie Curie.

The charity is the official partner of Yorkshire’s Grand Depart and is aiming to raise £1m for the free care it provides to people with terminal illness and their families.

Taking inspiration from the iconic yellow jersey and all things French, Marie Curie has come up with a pack containing ideas for fundraising.

Ideas include holding a tour party by organising a cycling tour of individual towns, holding a sponsored spin class or a day at school or work where everyone wears yellow . Other suggestions include holding French-themed dinner parties.

Jane Collins, Chief Executive of Marie Curie Said: “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be part of history and get involved in an event that people will always remember. We want as many people as possible to do something extraordinary to raise money for Marie Curie.

“Even if you’re not a cyclist, there are so many ways for you to get involved.”

Gary Verity, Chief Executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, said: “This project not only offers people the chance to celebrate this magnificent sporting event coming to Yorkshire, but also link up with Marie Curie and help raise some money for this great charity.”

To register for a Grand Départy fundraising pack, visit; www.mariecurie.org.uk/tourdefrance. Alternatively, people can donate directly to Marie Curie by texting TOUR to 70007, donating £5 to Marie Curie.