TWO authors whose humorous show explaining the Tour de France has sold out in 36 primary schools are inviting families to a one-off performance in a village hall.

All Teachers Great and Small author Andy Seed and Private Eye cartoonist Mike Barfield aim to demystify the annual multiple stage bicycle race, which was first staged in 1903, using drama, interaction, images and props.

The one-hour Tour de Schools show, which is part of the Tour de France Cultural Festival, sees the pair dress in a variety of costumes riders have worn, including knickerbockers and the helmet Chris Froome won the race in last year.

In the show, to be staged at Helperby, near Thirsk, on Sunday, June 22, at 7pm, members of the audience can test their cycling speed against that of 2012 Tour winner Sir Bradley Wiggins or undertake a weightlifting challenge.

Mr Barfield said: “The fact that the tour sold out shows the level of interest in the Tour de France, and the children have loved the show.

“We always get the loudest laugh when we bring out the red and white polka dot King of the Mountains jersey.”

For tickets, costing £3, call 01423-360364.