Excitement is mounting in Cumbria for the return of the Tour of Britain with a whole host of community events and activities taking place in the run-up to the big race.

Cumbria is hosting two days of racing on Thursday 6 and Friday 7 September.

Communities along the Cumbria stage routes are gearing up for the event, with many thousands expected to line the roads.

There have already been a number of community events and campaigns to raise awareness of the Tour.

In South Lakeland, a Stan Laurel-themed land art project is planned on the Hoad.

Britain’s greatest bike heroes are showcased on a dozen graphic panels erected around Ulverston as part of the build up to the arrival of the Tour of Britain in town.

The specially commissioned graphic panels are sited at a dozen locations around the town centre, and celebrate some of the biggest names in British cycling including Bradley Wiggins, Geraint Thomas, Chris Froome, Lizzie Deignan and Beryl Burton.

Dozens of bike wheels have been decorated and placed around the town to publicise the race.

A Cycle Sportive event is being held at Kendal Rugby Union FC’s ground on Saturday 8 September, with long and short road races to suit all ages, and a family fun day.