FEMALE cyclists have swapped lycra for lace in a risqué bid to highlight the impending arrival of the Tour de France in the region and raise cash for charity.

Photographers Paul Berriff and Michael Dunne persuaded the ladies section of the Cappuccino Cycling Club to change gear - by donning upmarket lingerie in aid of the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

Sue, who poses for September said: “We are all keen cyclists and used to a challenge but this was something new.

“Like cycling the experience has had its ups and downs but we supported each other with humour and encouragement.

"We have welcomed the opportunity to raise money for the air ambulance, a charity we rely on to be there at any time. It has been a once in a lifetime experience and a very different way to celebrate the Tour de France.”

Gary Verity, Chief Executive of Welcome to Yorkshire added: “It’s great to see people raising money for such an important charity, combining celebrating the arrival of the Grand Depart with showcasing some of the county’s fabulous locations along the route.”

Bafta award winning documentary maker Paul Berriff, of Bedale, and fashion photographer Michael Dunn, of Masham, who’s worked for Harpers Bazaar and Tatler, came up with the idea to help promote the Tour and the countryside.

There are fourteen locations - all on the Tours route - ranging from a brewery in Masham, to Kisdon Hill, near Muker and Buttertubs pass.

Mr Berriff said he approached several groups including the Cappuccino Club in Harrogate. “I asked if they were willing to strip off and wear underwear in front of a camera, there was silence for around twenty seconds before they realised what I had asked. Within an hour they came back with six volunteers and before long we had fourteen.

“ We were on location in some very cold weather but the ladies were not at all concerned. They have all been very brave and the calendar looks stunning, it’s a real credit to them and a fantastic way to raise money for a great cause as well as bringing more interest to Yorkshire and the Tour de France race.”

Copies are available from www.cappuccinocyclingcalendar.com