There were plenty of early birds on the Holme Moss climb - and most were surprised it was so quiet even before 8am.

Steve Cutts and wife Janet, from Alwoodley, Leeds, were up at 3.50am to set off for the Moss.

Steve, 48, said: "I must say we thought it would be busier. It might be a long day today!"

The couple watched the Tour come past their home yesterday on the meander from Leeds to Harewood.

"We have come today to see them race," said Janet, 47.

Brothers Jeff and Greg Dale and Claire Walker, a teacher at Colne Valley High School, only came from Wooldale - on foot.

"We wanted a decent vantage point so we came early," said Claire, 26.

"It's a long way but we have red wine and ham sandwiches!"

Another teacher - dripping in sweat - was Andrew Clowes, 43, a PE teacher at Newsome High School.

Walking with partner Shirley Harrison, 47, he was carrying a huge rucksack on his back.

It was loaded with two chairs, a "big" picnic, waterproofs, sunhats, umbrellas and "technology"!

"We will probably go halfway up Holme Moss, find a spot and have a nap! We just want to take in the atmosphere. It's just so happy and friendly," said Andrew.

"It makes you really proud of how people have embraced the Tour."

A family from Wakefield, Damian Rules, partner Susan Taylor and their children Jack and Bev were also on the march.

"We saw the Tour yesterday at Aysgarth. We dropped lucky and found a feeding station, which was brilliant to watch," said Damian, 52.

"We loved every second. The anticipation as the excitement builds is electric - and we got some pictures of Chris Froome as he came past!"

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

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