AN AWARD-WINNING sports photographer is holding an exhibition of his favourite cycling pictures at a Richmond tourist spot – which is having a French rebrand in honour of the Grand Depart.

The Station, Richmond, will be known as La Gare from mid-June until the end of July in honour of the Tour de France, with the centrepiece of the venue being Bryn Lennon’s exhibition.

Mr Lennon was named Sports Photographer of the Year for 2014 at the Sports Journalist Association awards for his cycling folio, and has chosen 25 of his favourite images for the Station.

The free exhibition, running from Monday, June 23 until July 17, is part of a programme of events being held at the Station over the coming weeks.

Manager Melanie Cookson-Carter said: “We are rebranding as La Gare.

“The Station is embracing the spirit of Le Tour, while breathing a slight sigh of relief that we’re not actually on the route itself.

“We’re going to be offering a taste of the tour here in Richmond without the hassle of road closures and diversions for those people who would prefer to stay local while the race takes place, or who are unable to get up close to the action but still want to mark such an historic event.”

Mr Lennon said: “I’m delighted to be able to support the Station’s La Gare programme by bringing some of my photography to Richmond.

“I’ve been lucky enough to gain a fascinating insight into the tour over the years, and being able to capture key moments from the back of an in-race motorbike is a real thrill.”

Mr Lennon will be giving a talk at the Station on Wednesday, July 2 at 11am. For information about all events at La Gare visit www.richmondstation.com.