Update -Tour de Yorkshire to return to streets of Wakefield?

Riders make their way through Wakefield in May

The council’s cabinet members approved to fund the bid at a meeting on Tuesday.

Around 20,000 people turned out as the inaugural race passed through the streets of Wakefield and Sandal.

The council is expected to bid to hold a stage finish of next year’s event, which will be held in May.

Coun Olivia Rowley, cabinet member for children and young people, told the meeting: “Last year was a fantastic event. Not only did it really excite people it also benefitted a lot of establishments.

“People came to Wakefield and spent money and that’s the whole idea behind it.”

Council leader Peter Box said: “I have spoken to a lot of people and businesses across the district who have all said this year’s race benefited business a lot.

“We know times are tough but we think it would actually be a really good investment for our district.

“Events like this bring everyone together and all of those people are spending money in shops, hotels, restaurants and cafes.”