THE first-ever Tour de Yorkshire will include a women's road race, it has been announced.

Entries are now being taken for the event – to be held on the York circuit of the Tour when it visits the town on May 2.

The 11am race will be held over four laps of a 20km circuit around the city with the same infrastructure being used for the main Tour event later that afternoon. Welcome to Yorkshire chief executive Gary Verity said: “We promised from the start to bring more women’s racing to Yorkshire’s roads.

“By hosting this race and taking advantage of the spectators, race infrastructure and media spotlight already on York that day, we’ll show women’s racing off to the world.”

Bob Howden, president of British Cycling said: “This is a fantastic new addition to the calendar and a great showcase for women’s racing.

“The York circuit is set for huge crowds and a superb atmosphere, so we look forward to an action-packed day.”

Meanwhile, a women’s only mass participation cycle ride – the Cycletta – will take place on May 3. It will include part of stage three of the Tour de Yorkshire.

Full details for the race, map and entry forms can be found at britishcycling.org.uk/events/details/128520/Women's-Tour-de-Yorkshire