AN arts charity is set to welcome the Tour de France to North Yorkshire with a life-size sculpture of a cyclist made from unwanted toys.

Members of Thirsk-based Rural Arts’ weekly club for youngsters said they used the work of artist Robert Bradford as inspiration for the sculpture of the cyclist, which they have named Bruce.

A charity spokeswoman said the artwork would complement the Le Tour banners it was displaying the garden of its base.

To celebrate the arrival of the Grand Depart, Rural Arts will hold both events themed around Yorkshire and up-cycling - giving something old and unwanted a new lease of life - to encourage people to create and engage with the art Yorkshire has to offer.

The charity will stage an exhibition of work from professional artists across the county from July 1, an up-cycle exhibition until June 15 and an arts makers market on May 31.

Families are being invited to attend up-cycle workshops on Tuesday (May 27) and Thursday (May 29), for £2.50 per family.

For details, visit ruralarts.org or call 01845-526536.