A HUDDERSFIELD firm has thrown its weight behind Yorkshire’s bid to host a stage of cycling’s Tour de France.
Linthwaite-based Arrow Self Drive loaned two of the firm’s top-of-the-range cars to regional tourist body Welcome to Yorkshire, which is leading the bid for the county to stage the Grand Depart of the tour in 2014.
The cars have been decked out in distinctive pink, yellow and white branding and will be on the road around the county as part of the final push to attract the epic race.
They made their first appearance in the Lord Mayor’s Parade in London.
Chris Taylor, managing director of Arrow Self Drive, said: “Bringing the Tour de France to Yorkshire is a great idea and Arrow Self Drive is proud to be backing the bid.
“We know that events of this sort generate lots of business for the county and these cars will certainly let people know that we are serious!”
Arrow Self Drive has depots throughout the region, including ones in Wakefield, Leeds, Bradford, Barnsley, Knaresborough and Hull.
Gary Verity, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, said: “It is support from companies like Arrow Self Drive that gives that extra boost to our bid.
“The cars look great and really get our message across. With its glorious countryside, fantastic coastline and vibrant cities Yorkshire is an ideal place to host the Grand Depart of the Tour de France in 2014 and if we are successful the economic boost to the county will be incredible.”
A decision on the bid is expected in the New Year.
