The Tour de France may have come and gone in a blur of two wheeled action in Yorkshire, but the British influence on the world famous cycling event will still be heard thanks to the Harrogate Band.

Success

They will be spreading the success of ‘Le Grand Dèpart’ to Harrogate’s twin town of Luchon, a spa resort in the Pyrenees.

It will be the band’s first visit — and it is one that tour organiser Ed Dennis told 4BR, that they are really looking forward to.

"Thanks to the efforts of local enthusiasts, schools and the Tour de France, the twinning link is being strengthened. We can’t wait to play in Luchon, especially as we’ve been offered free accommodation and some great concerts."

Impressed

He added: "The Mayor of Luchon visited Harrogate for the Tour de France and was very impressed by the town’s commitment and is looking forward to us coming over. The band is keen to build a legacy from the success of Le Grand Depart.

Harrogate will play at Luchon’s annual Flower Festival — a massive four day celebration with parades, firework displays and music performed by groups from all over Europe."

The band is keen to build a legacy from the success of Le Grand DepartEd Dennis

Style

Musical Director Craig Ratcliffe added: "We’re taking the performance style we’ve developed from playing at the Durham Miners’ Gala and using it where we need to perform at various points around the town.

There’ll be musical groups from all around Europe there, and being a competitive bunch we want to be the best!"