A YORKSHIRE Dales town could be cordoned off if it gets too full with Tour de France spectators, officials say.

Emergency measures to control the numbers will kick-in in Skipton if numbers exceed about 13,000 people.

Barriers would be placed around the town to protect the public and riders.

People would be accommodated in "pens" for their safety in the High Street.

Sharon Hudson, who is coordinating the event for Craven District Council, said in the wider area around the town centre, something in the region of 30,000 people were expected

She added: "Skipton has been named as an official spectator hub. It is seen as a hotspot for crowd numbers.

"Our aim is to make sure that people have a safe and enjoyable experience and that traders get the most out of this fantastic opportunity."

She stressed that once people had selected where they wished to watch the race, they should remain there and not try to follow the riders.