THE Royal Mail is gearing up for the Tour De France Grand Départ by issuing a special postmark.

On Saturday, July 5, posties across the UK will deliver mail that will have the words Yorkshire Grand Départ, Tour De France, 2014 emblazoned across it.

Royal Mail’s postmarks are reserved for special occasions and are used to recognise significant events, historical anniversaries or support of charity.

Spokesman Stephen Agar said: “We’re delighted to be marking the Tour De France Grand Départ with one of our postmarks.

“It’ll be a very special moment to see this iconic sporting event begin in the UK in Yorkshire and we’re pleased to mark the occasion in this unique way.”