BUSINESSES and community groups are being urged to join a drive to ensure a city benefits from being included on the 2014 Tour de France route.

The world’s largest single sporting event will pass through Ripon city centre on July 5 next year after the riders tackle a circuit of the Yorkshire Dales.

Dozens of people attended a Ripon Welcomes Le Tour meeting led by cycling enthusiasts and business leaders to share ideas about making the best of the opportunities the event presents.

Discussions were led by Ripon cyclist Alastair Little, gallery owner David Stead and Neil Dunkley who runs Moonglu cycle shop in the city.

The event was also supported by the City Development Team and Welcome to Yorkshire.

Alan Weston, city development manager, said: “It was great to see so many enthusiastic people all wanting to get involved.

“Working together we can make this both a successful community event and also attract visitors and tourists to the city.”