Thousands of people crowded onto the Sands recreation ground in Holmfirth to bask in the sunshine and enjoy day one of the Grand Depart.

Cyclists, bike fans and those just out for a good time mingled in front of the big screen, enjoying a carnival atmosphere in brilliant, unexpected sunshine.

There was food, stalls and a children's fun fair and a big screen showing the Tour live.

One family reunited by a love of cycling were the Button brothers who grew up in Scholes.

Eldest brother Lee still lives in Wooldale but Richard, 45, now lives on the Isle of Wight and youngest brother Martin, 42, hails from Loughborough.

But a love of cycling and the Tour de France brought them back together.

The brothers cycled up and down Holme Moss as kids and they did it again, 24 hours before the Tour pros showed them how it was done.

Martin said: "I haven't done Holme Moss for 20 years and it's certainly got longer and harder. Or maybe it's me that's carrying a bit more weight! Either way, none of us stopped."

The brothers attended Honley High School and Martin added: "Growing up I never expected the Tour de France to come through where we grew up.

"It's a good excuse to get the family back together. We'll have a kitchen full of bikes."

Neighbours also took the chance to party.

There are just seven houses in Woodland View in Holmfirth, close to where the Tour will pass by, and all the neighbours - including Daniel and Catherine Firth, Kirsty Hawksworth, Matt Fox, Andy and Abby Irwin and Dan Passmore - nipped down to join the crowds but on Sunday will have a street party with gazebo and barbecue.

Daniel said: "It's a once in a lifetime event and it's great to be part of it. There has been a lot of negativity but it's only for one weekend. It brings families and people together."

Holmfirth itself was heaving with young and old alike on bikes winding - slowly - through the narrow streets.

Find out what time Le Tour is in Huddersfield , Holmfirth , Calderdale and Leeds

Check out Le Tour route though our area in pictures here

Click here to see which Huddersfield and Holmfirth roads are closed for Le Tour and what parking restrictions are in place

 

Ready for the Grand Depart? Test your Tour de France knowledge with our cycling jargon quiz and Le Tour locations quiz

For more Tour de France news and information click here