RYEDALE residents have been recognised for their contribution to a major UK cycling event.

Annika Dowson and Wendy Rushton, both from Ryedale, met with former Foreign Secretary and Leader of the Opposition, William Hague, at an event in Harrogate.

At the event they received appreciation for their voluntary work that contributed to the success of the Yorkshire leg of the Tour of Britain.

The Tour of Britain returned to North Yorkshire last month (September 2022) after 13 years.  

Stage 4 of the prestigious cycling competition passed through Whitby, Robin Hood's Bay, Stokesley, Carlton Bank and large swathes of the North York Moors National Park, before finishing in Helmsley.

North Yorkshire county councillor George Jabbour, who represents Helmsley, said: “Without the wonderful work that many communities and volunteers carried out across our county, the Yorkshire leg of the Tour of Britain would not have been the success that it was.

"From land art projects and bunting to window dressing competitions and other community activities, the people of Yorkshire passionately and proudly embraced the Tour.

“Here in Helmsley, Annika and Wendy, together with many volunteers, made an invaluable contribution.  I am really glad that their amazing input has been acknowledged by Lord Hague of Richmond as their efforts truly deserve all the praise received.”