A CHILDREN’S author and a humourist are appealing for Tour de France memorabilia to use in a touring show for children about the world’s largest annual sporting event.

All Teachers Great and Small author Andy Seed and Private Eye cartoonist Mike Barfield said their one-hour show Tour de Schools will demystify the race, by explaining to children how it works through drama, interaction, images and props.

The pair, whose 2012 Oh-Lympics! show toured 33 schools across the North of England, will perform their latest production detailing the history, geography and landmark events of the Tour de France, from April to July, ahead of the race visiting North Yorkshire.

Mr Barfield, of Helperby, near Thirsk, said they would return any memorabilia they were given for the show, which will feature examples of the different shirts that can be won in the tour and the yellow helmet reigning tour champion Chris Froome wore in last year's race.

Mr Seed, of Amotherby, near Malton, said: “For teachers, having one of the world’s biggest sporting events on our doorstep is a wonderful chance to inspire children and to find out about cycling and France itself.

“We will reveal funny and amazing true tales from past events and bring alive stories of some of the Tour de France’s great heroes and characters, not least Sir Bradley Wiggins himself.”

For details or bookings, visit andyseed.com or call 01653-696704.