TOUR de Yorkshire fever has hit Helmsley with an array of bike-themed events planned for the town.

The peloton will pass through Helmsley on May 5 and businesses and homes are being encouraged to enter a Best Dressed Window competition.

The town is being decorated with a sea of blue and yellow and the Helmsley in Business group will be awarding prizes for the best residential window and best business window – and the public will be encouraged to vote for their favourites on the town’s Facebook page.

There will also be activities to get everyone active thanks to the Helmsley Community Library, which is working with Get Cycling from York to host a Pedal Powered Arcade.

Children will be able to create a smoothie on a special machine that works off pedal power and there will be a velodrome racing game on an interactive track.

There will also be a cycle race simulator enabling users to pick their location and route then compete in a simulated race.

The events are taking place on the road in between the Royal Oak and the Town Hall between 12pm and 4pm.

Katie Atkinson of Helmsley in Business, said: “We can’t wait to welcome the Tour de Yorkshire again and hopefully Helmsley and its crowds cheering the riders on will do us proud.”